Potential volcanic activity persists around Grímsey
Half a dozen shocks off the coast of Grímsey stirred conversations about the possibility of magma shifting under the Tjörnes fracture zone, according to volcanologist and professor, Þorvaldur Þórðarson. It's his opinion that this fracture zone, much like the Reykjanes Peninsula, is influenced by forces tearing Iceland apart[1].
Yesterday morning, a magnitude 4.7 quake erupted just east of the island, followed by a chorus of aftershocks, the strongest measuring 3.5. Feeling those quakes were not just a unique desire, but a reality for countless folks across North Iceland[2].
Þórðarson went on to state, "We can't turn a blind eye to the likelihood of magma movement. In this type of context, the Tjörnes fracture zone shares striking similarities with the Reykjanes Peninsula, both being fault zones impacted by the tectonic forces splitting Iceland apart"[1].
In these regions, seismic activty is predominantly set off by tectonic fractures as crustal plates slide in opposite directions. Yet, the angle of the fault zone relative to the direction of the plate movement can cause a combination of horizontal tension and minor vertical extension[1].
When queried about the potential interplay of earthquake swarms and magma movement, Þórðarson responded, "Swarming earthquakes may suggest magma migrating beneath the Earth's crust. Alternatively, it could merely indicate a fault extending laterally, with magma trailing along"[1].
Nevertheless, it's worth mentioning that, at the moment, there's no explicit evidence pointing towards an upcoming volcanic explosion in the Tjörnes region. The geological intricacies of Iceland necessitate constant vigilance when assessing such possibilities - the experts never take their eyes off the ball[1].
Scientist Þorvaldur Þórðarson, after observing a series of earthquakes in Grímsey, suggested that the Tjörnes fracture zone, like the Reykjanes Peninsula, might host magma movement due to tectonic forces causing Iceland to split apart. This fossil activity can be linked to both horizontal tension and minor vertical extension, similar to seismic activity caused by tectonic fractures along North Iceland.
Medical-conditions and health-and-wellness of residents in the area could be influenced by its proximity to potential volcanic eruptions, as breathable particles during an eruption can lead to various respiratory complications. Furthermore, constant science monitoring of the Tjörnes region is crucial due to its shared characteristics with regions where volcanic activity has occurred, allowing for quick response should an eruption occur.
