Volcano Watch 2023: What The Heck Is Happening By The Blue Lagoon?

Tens of thousands of earthquakes have rattled the Reykjanes peninsula since October 27, 2023, and GPS readings show ground uplift and magma accumulating 4km underground. What makes this different from the similar events in 2021, 2022 and July 2023? It's all happening right by the Blue Lagoon, the town of Grindavík and the Svartsengi Power Plant.
The Reykjavík Grapevine's Jón Trausti Sigurðarson visited the seismically active area with volcanologist Þorvaldur Þórðarson on Nov. 8, 2023, to find our what's going on.
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Read our July 2023 feature about the current volcanic cycle the Reykjanes peninsula is in: grapevine.is/m...
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[@cz8189]

Still missing Valur and Polly, but that was a good interview and it was great to hear directly from Thorvaldur Thordarson - please keep this interesting content frequently updated - thank-you !

[@Mp57navy]

I've spotted Valur at RUV. He's in good hands there i think. We'll see more of him when there's an eruption I'm sure.

[@nennesezagain]

me three!

[@damhnaitcockburn2970]

I have seen several videos with Thorvaldr in them and I could listen to him talk about volcanism for hours.

[@marygoldsworthy9836]

Good to see the Grapevine again. Interesting information about the earthquake situation. Best wishes to Valur, Art and Polly. We miss you!

[@soly-dp-colo6388]

Yes, we do miss them. It's great to have this explanation by Prof. Þorvaldur Þordarson.

[@bogkaty1291]

Yes,I still miss Valur & Polly. I hope they are doing well! I started watching them on RG about a week before the exciting eruption in 2021.!

[@snowmiaow]

​@@bogkaty1291where did they go?

[@TheReykjavikGrapevine]

@@snowmiaow They're doing well and working for the national broadcaster :)

[@TurnDar]

Canada is watching with concern. Very educational report. Thanks Jon and Art. Stay safe everyone.

[@claudiavonkroge3604]

Thank you very much for the information and all the views over that beautiful landscapes. I miss Valur and Polly, too. It would be nice to know how he is doing. If it is possible send him greetings and say to him, we miss him all very much!

[@lynneedwards4538]

Fascinating. Reykjavik Grapevine has been sorely missed. Welcome back and well done for such an interesting and easy to understand explanation of Icelandic geology and volcanology.

[@ianrobinson9802]

Glad to have RG back. Expert interviews are a good thing.

[@debraanderson8893]

Extremely happy to see The Grapevine back out on the road reporting again. Hopefully, we'll see you more frequently with the current happenings on Iceland. And yes, a cute dog as a co-star could add to your ratings 😊

[@TheReykjavikGrapevine]

Our office dog is camera shy ;)

[@pamelakuhlman8481]

The office dog needs to go for walks. Please let us see him or her; tell us the name too.

[@constance7833]

Excellent interview with such an incredibly knowledgeable man. Thank you for providing us with this information. I’m not an Icelandic native, but have visited your beautiful country 4 times, hopefully many more visits. Prayers for safety to all in the areas of potential danger. It’s good to see The Grapevine again. Although your coverage was excellent, I miss seeing Valur, Art, and Polly. Thanks again for your information and bringing an expert to provide factual information.

[@Nubianette]

So interesting! It’s great to see interesting news from Iceland again! I miss the frisbee tosses.

[@williamlloyd3769]

When serving at the closed NATO base at Keflavik in 1979-80, it was amazing to learn that all the heating was from using hot water from the geothermal power plant. Recall hiking to the top of Mt. Keilir and looking over lava fields to the international airport and the power plant / blue lagoon.

[@CrackerFL]

The Professor gave a great easy to understand talk. Yes, let's hope for the best & and prepare for the worst.

[@3twelveworkshop312]

Thank you Grapevine and Jon!! Great interview with the Professor. Jon you did an excellent job of asking insightful questions and stepping back to let the expert talk. Wish the media here in America would do as good of a job as you did. I hope one day I can visit your beautiful country!!!..

[@TheReykjavikGrapevine]

Thanks for watching

[@EvaZamzow-fx9lz]

Try listening to Meidas Touch a pro democracy independent news network covering the intersection of law and politics. Very good legal breakdowns and many other contributors. They don't cover all news however.

[@SkyeRangerNick]

I appreciate this conversation. It is so quintessential Iceland; and the Icelandic experience. I mean, volcanoes erupt around the world. Each volcanic has its local narrative and its own cultural experience over time.

[@SkyeRangerNick]

An abundant and heartfelt thank you to Jón, Þorvaldur and Art - and others who contribute to this work.

[@jakobfromthefence]

Excellent! Interview with a professional in the field. Thank you!

[@15Webber]

Excellent explanation and well spoken english. Kudos.

[@energitrimmeren]

Thanks for being back. Looking forward to seeing follow ups. Always nice with the relaxed approach.

[@chefprov]

Thank you for this ! I’m quickly learning about volcanoes, as our very first trip to Iceland is December 1st ! We moved our Blue Lagoon reservations to Sky lagoon ! Praying for the best 👍😎

[@Linda-pg3so]

Learning so much here. Thanks for such an informative channel. Good luck Iceland🇦🇺.

[@marknelson1255]

Very interesting and informative. I visited Iceland in October and spent a day on the Reykjanes peninsula hiking beside the lava fields from 2021 and 2022, having dinner in Grindavik, then going to the Blue Lagoon, so this all feels personal.

[@melodyszadkowski5256]

Þakka þér Jón! Also to the good professor who explaining it to us nail-biting folks around the world watching this unfold.

[@maryt2887]

Thank you, Professor, for your excellent explanation of the history and potential repercussions of current events.

[@susannell544]

Hey yes you are a lucky Professor to be able to explain all that in that area at this time!

[@rangerk8e]

At the beginning of every disaster movie is a scientist telling you exactly what's about to happen. Pay attention folks, it's not often that life imitates art this closely.

[@deedorothypapineau6920]

I’m happy to find The Grapevine reporting again. Jon as the new face brings a new perspective to events. I’m surprised Art is still behind the camera. Hello again. Every day I check Just Icelandic to get Gylfi’s perspective and his photography. You should check with him since he’s using heat sensitive cameras on his drones. (When conditions allow). Like so many I hope events unfold with no loss of life or property.

[@tessasable-eo4os]

We have been to Iceland twice and can highly recommend a trip to this amazing place. Thank you for a great report on what is happening. It has brought back some happy memories!

[@Judithgoulding9999]

Super interesting! Thanks for this - I really enjoyed hearing about it from Þorvaldur!

[@TheReykjavikGrapevine]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@bakokat6982]

Thank you for this excellent and educational interview with this excellent Professor. Please continue covering the volcanic activities , thank you and the Professor for your generous time. Prayers for everyone’s safety, from earthquake country in California. Yes earthquakes are both scary and fascinating.

[@spocksdaughter9641]

Jon I am sure you are going to bring us all, a new experience for you and the rest of the world watching

[@michellemccarron7471]

Superb synopsis. Thank you so much RG!

[@TheReykjavikGrapevine]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@TheAuntMar-USA]

Thank you so much for this talk. I enjoyed it very much. I first came across the Grapevine during past eruptions, back when Valur and Polly and crew would take us on walks out to see the eruptions and also they took us on walks around town, which for me were very interesting since I didn’t know much about Iceland but hoped some day I will be able to visit, especially since I live on the east coast of the USA and flights are not too long to get there. Anyway, thanks again, and if you see Valur and Polly, please tell them I said hello.

[@Rocketboy-qg6ts]

Great format and very informative. We went to Iceland this summer past and fell in love with the country. All our best wishes to all Icelanders and hoping it’ll be a small and safe eruption for you all.

[@vronw5782]

Òoh lovely to see grapevine back on earthquake and volcanic reporting 🙂 ❤🙏🕯 to all in Iceland

[@helmutrausch336]

Hope ,if an eroption will happend that this will in an uncritical area . Best wishes to Valur and Polly , both were an positive presentator from Island . Please give Valur an new contract . Best regards from germany 😊

[@johnzuijdveld9585]

There are 3 channels that I watch for news about the volcanology in Iceland and also about the culture and lifestyle, this is one of those. 😁

[@OnaMuir]

Thank you. 🤗

[@iDuckman]

I very much enjoyed that. Love the presenter's laid-back tone. Thank you.

[@imitatio]

Once again, superb presentation: words and images in dynamic equilibrium: and a purposeful sequence of question-and-answer which generated real insight. Þakka þér fyrir!

[@jonkirk2118]

That was fascinating. Many thanks for going into such detail. Takk fyrir og þetta reddast! 🌋

[@Laurie473]

Thankyou RG very much..., I'm watching this geological story develop from far away Down-under, Perth, Australia . A fantastic & informative Video 🤗

[@susannell544]

That is a huge area but the first Fagdralsfjall was also a large area. What worries the public the most I think is There was said to be Uplift of 3 inches??

[@sandrakisch3600]

Thank you for this information. Hopefully the inhabited areas stay safe. 🙏🏼

[@russvhill2]

Thanks for a great video Jon, and for arranging the interview which made the situation much clearer. It's good to see the superb camera work of Art again, and maybe he will now be able to fulfill Valor's prediction that the ever dedicated Art will be on site with camera ready to record the lava as it first breaks through to the surface :)

[@twilightpurpleglow]

Super interesting video/explanation of the magma of the disaster that might come soon. I was glued to the Las Palmas Volcano eruption in 2021 and now I am here worried for your country. Great interview Mr Thorvaldr. The terrain is so inhospitable it makes me appreciate so much my home, green grass and trees lots of birds and plants. I pray there will not be too much damage or none at all. Save the animals please. Stay safe gentlemen thank you for your update. Greetings from Texas USA

[@verityundefinedhunt8085]

Where is Valur and Polly?

[@7storm]

Thank you very good interview. Down in New Zealand here hoping everyone remains safe.

[@maryfreeman3341]

Thank you for this information, it was very clear.

[@artieanderson604]

Not trying to be rude, but I miss the guy (don't remember name) with Polly too!!! I thought the channel had been canceled until I saw this. I loved seeing that dog--so cute.

[@TheSecretChateau]

Valur and Polly. Yes, miss them too. 😊

[@dimensionaltravelerchanga1072]

Gentleman, thank you for sharing. Have a good day.

[@josephinekeilman8232]

I say this update is the best ever. Very informative educational information I have ever got the pleasure of watching. Your update has even surpassed Dutchsinse who I had found to be the best on earthquake activity globally. Thank you. Many blessings to you all in Iceland.

[@janmitchell641]

Thank you for this. I pray for the safety of all the people and structures in this area.

[@margietucker1719]

And the animals too❤

[@stvrob6320]

Who are you, and what have you done with Valur?

[@JackMorningstar-nm8gc]

Great update. I hope all goes well.

[@alayneperrott9693]

Excellent interview, very clearly explained. Thank you both.

[@junearcher1]

Good interview, thank you.

[@hatteraslighthouse]

Just found your channel - will be watching more of your videos, both past and current - very well covered - please stay safe!

[@susannell544]

Thank you for bringing in an expert! You are at a bad spot there on the faultlines. Because magma does protrude there also. Hard to tell if it is nearby Volcano or faultlines......maybe BOTH?

[@lxxSwmp]

I want to go back to Iceland so bad! :(

[@parkees]

Thank you for this vid. It's so helpful to have an understanding of that landscape and where everything is situated. It's really an incredible event for someone to see (me) as I've never seen snow/ice or volcanic activity in real life. I hope my interest isn't uncaring because I hope the people of Iceland stay safe and are able to be in their homes soon. The gentleman being interviewed is so knowledgeable

[@ssglopezvm]

Aloha from Hawaii 🤙 Polly and Valur are the stars of this show!

[@TheReykjavikGrapevine]

That's strange - they're not even in it

[@DonnaCsuti-ji2dd]

Very good lecture and explanation of the current activity. Thank you

[@gracejohnston2692]

Thanks for the update❤

[@duncwoodbridge7152]

Brilliant explanation of whats happening the professor explains things so well and any business people that don't listen to him should prepare for the worst!Had a great time at the Blue Lagoon its an amazing place will be watching with interest what happens next stay safe everyone

[@RoxanneM-]

Thank you guys! Fascinating explanation from the professor. Hope things turn out in the best possible way.

[@chriskeentechnician]

Fascinating interview, thank you! Not sure if I’d be standing there given the situation though 😬

[@paulmartin2664]

Excellent interview!!

[@lloydbellis7360]

Great information, thank you 👍👍👍

[@mistermylo8607]

Resubscribed. Hope these reports of scientific interest continue.

[@FrankLassowski]

Thanks for that interview with Þorvaldur, those insights are the difference to other channels. Keep up your good work, especially in these tense days, and stay safe. Hopefully the powerplant and Grindavik will escape destruction.

[@patriciaoudart1508]

Thanks a lot for the real situation and advice from the Professor, that's what news should be!👍👌💚🧡

[@curtisrendon204]

Glad to see you again.

[@jbutube81]

Wishing luck and safety to the community on the peninsula, but I have to also say, sublime interview and presentation by Jon and the Grapevine. Fantastic off the cuff summary by Prof Thorvaldur. Journalism, and science, at their best. Best wishes from Australia.

[@Parianparlay]

What a lovely Professor! Thank you for this film and even showing us The Blue Lagoon. Brilliant🙏🏻!

[@Wilkins_Micawber]

Such lovely people. I visited Iceland in 2015, they take everything in their stride. Such resilient people. They will just pick themselves up, dust off and start all over again.

[@charlesblaicher7589]

Wonderful job and such a gracious volcanologist. Thanks

[@mickeysmiths]

Really cool vid! A great structure & excellent information & images. Keep up the most excellent work 👍

[@carolannhouston8801]

I adored my visit to the blue lagoon. I hope you all stay safe ❤

[@davidbail944]

Good interview enjoyed it, I love Iceland was in the blue lagoon last November fingers crossed everything will be ok

[@stephenswift9868]

Most informative! Thanks.

[@28105wsking]

Where is Valur Grettisson? I miss him. I want him to be reporting again, please put Valur and Polly on the reporting beat.

[@jjarm]

Outstanding interview! Good luck to all of you. It appears this is only the beginning of a yield of years of activity going forward. Plan accordingly.

[@linsfruit5240]

Thankyou Dr Thorvaldur and to Jon and Art 👏

[@sailingonasummerbreeze7892]

I have always found volcanos fascinating....please keep us updated!

[@glennthompson1971]

Great info from Dr Thordarson. I got to meet him at a CONVERSE meeting a few months ago. Very knowledgeable

[@miahill6864]

Excellent report. Thank you for the lecture professor.

[@iahelcathartesaura3887]

Very best explanation and intelligent description about what is happening there. Thank you so much! Prayers for all

[@fhugheveleigh2]

Fascinating conversation and very useful to a person who knows so little about this field of knowledge. I hope for a good outcome for all of you

[@mikelobdell2666]

Excellent easy to follow explanations. Thankyou.

[@levidaisyyoung220]

it was nice to listen to a real scientist that has a passion for his work.. and not a government scientist lying to the public.. thank you sir for this great interview.. praying you all stay safe..

[@Pacho-h6u]

Very good job...i was 2 weeks ago in that beautiful area..God protec all of you..

[@jeanniemarkech351]

We visited Iceland in 2023. It is one of my favorite places in the world. I LOVE Iceland. I so hope the Blue Lagoon will be spared. We shall see. Thank you for an informative video.

[@fmcevoy1]

I've been to Grindavik before! Been running around the peninsula many times.

[@samanthaoswald3675]

its already been said but we appreciate these commentary videos for us that don't live around there. I love to know whats going on and you are doing a fantastic job. very interested to see what happens!

[@tonquinb]

Not on this site much anymore....Miss Valur and Polly!

[@k.s.1737]

Fascinating. Thank you for this report.

[@janetbyrd1065]

Build a berm around the power plant and the Blue Lagoon!!!

[@fionarogers3373]

A great interview

[@ashleigh2491]

Very interesting. Thank you

[@barryward7633]

Thank you for a very good and informative interview, we have here in New Zealand active volcanic areas in the central north island that from time to time have eruptions namely Mt Tongariro and Ruapehu, cheers.

[@AuJohnM]

A big thank-you to your expert volcanologist. He was excellent value.

[@DanWall-dn1vb]

Nobody else will say it so I will. Bring back Valur! (And Polly) Valur IS the voice of Iceland, with Polly's help of couse.

[@Mar-up7db]

Jón is doing a great job! Nice one to step in Valur's shoes.