Geophysicist Freymódur Sigmundsson says that the volcanic activity seemed stable the three hours he watched the eruption from a circling airplane this morning. He says it is possible that the rift will grow longer as time passes by. According to mbl.is Sigmundsson said the eruption activity was impressive.Lava is flowing in two directions, to the east and the main stream to the west. Because of heat turbulence it was impossible to fly over the western stream.

“The direction of the row of craters is a bit unusual, going from north to south. Most of the rifts go from east to west.”

Iceland volcano

Iceland volcano

Iceland volcano

We think this eruption is connected to the earthquake activity that we have seen in recent weeks. It is possible that the eruption moves south or north.

If it goes south it could go under the glacier, but we have no indication of that.”

At the moment it seems unlikely that the eruption will lead to a major flood as would happen when an eruption starts under a glacier.

The weather in the area is not the most favorable to tourists who might want to see the eruption. Because of rain visibility is limited. The forecast is not good until Wednesday.

Photo: Ragnar Axelsson