A series of portraits and images I did for the NZZ, documenting the recent volcanic eruption of Sundhnukagigar in Iceland and how it has impacted the residents of Grindavik.

On November 2023, a series of intense earthquakes shook the town of Grindavik, a small town known for its proximity to the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Iceland. The earthquakes continued throughout the next days, changing the town once and for all. Fissures opened, splitting roads in half, houses started sinking and cracks appeared on the walls of many houses. Just a few weeks later a volcanic eruption began in Sundhnukagigar , just a few kilometers from Grindavík, creating significant geological and environmental impacts. The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) reported that the eruption, located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, followed an intense period of seismic activity characterized by over 8,000 earthquakes, some reaching magnitudes of 4.0 and higher​ (Icelandic Meteorological office)​.

The eruption began in the early hours, with tremors felt across the Reykjanes Peninsula, a region already known for its frequent seismic activity. The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) had been closely monitoring the area due to increased seismicity and magmatic movements detected in the weeks leading up to the eruption.

As lava began to flow, authorities swiftly moved to evacuate nearby areas to ensure the safety of residents and tourists. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, thanks to the rapid response and effective communication from emergency services.

In the aftermath, the focus remains on monitoring the volcano's activity and assessing the damage. The eruption serves as a reminder of Iceland's volatile environment, shaped by the constant interplay between its tectonic plates. For now, Grindavik's residents and the broader Icelandic community remain vigilant, adapting to the challenges posed by living in one of the world's most geologically active regions.