Intense earthquake activity continues at the Bárðarbunga volcano. Since midnight, over 900 earthquakes have been detected in Bárðarbunga. Today three earthquakes exceeding three in magnitude have occurred on the caldera rim of Bárðarbunga, the largest one was magnitude 4. These earthquakes were at depths around 2 - 5 km. They are interpreted as possible adjustments of the caldera due to changing magma pressure. They are not assumed to be the precursor to an imminent eruption, according to scientists at the Icelandic Met Office.

There are no signs that the seismicity is decreasing. Seismic and GPS measurements reveal a 25 km long dyke being formed in the crust under the Dyngjujökull glacier at 5 - 10 km depth. Interpretation of the latest data suggests that the dyke has widened slightly at its north-eastern end beneath Dyngjujökull. The dyke has not propagated to the north-east, nor has it progressed to shallower depth.

The ongoing monitoring and assessment effort is necessary in case a volcanic eruption occurs. Hazards in the event of an eruption are being assessed, including a glacial outburst flood and dispersal of volcanic ash. Additional seismic, GPS and hydrological stations have been installed in the Bárðarbunga region. Likewise, mobile radars capable of monitoring ash dispersal have been moved to the region.

There are no measurements to suggest that an eruption is imminent. Previous intrusion events in Iceland have lasted for several days or weeks, often not resulting in an eruption. However an eruption of Bárðarbunga cannot presently be excluded, hence the intense monitoring and preparation efforts.

Topic

Bárðarbunga and Holuhraun

Earthquake in Bárðarbunga this morning

• Magnitude 4.4 quake strikes Iceland’s Bárðarbunga
• Size 4.2 quake hits Iceland’s Bárðarbunga volcano
• Bárðarbunga quakes “not uncommon”
• Bárðarbunga continues to rumble

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