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Iceland residents return as likely volcano eruption site moved
Johannes Pleschberger in Grindavik

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While Iceland's Reykjanes volcano is still likely to erupt within days, the expected outbreak location has moved to an uninhabited area not far from the town of Grindavik. 

Authorities have lowered the threat level to public safety in the area, allowing Grindavik residents to return for several hours during the day to check on their homes.

"I know now that I feel more safe," resident Karitas Vidarsdottir told CGTN after entering her home for the first time since the evacuation. "I feel like my town is safe and that we can all come back and rebuild." 

The 35-year-old school teacher is hopeful that the likely volcano site will be moved to another location. "I plan to come again, I plan to continue living here. I feel good. I'm not scared," said  Vidarsdottir. 

‌Other residents are less optimistic. Vyrautas says he won't move back here as the house he rents is not habitable any more.

General view of the town of Grindavik, which was evacuated due to volcanic activity. /Marko Djurica/Reuters
General view of the town of Grindavik, which was evacuated due to volcanic activity. /Marko Djurica/Reuters

General view of the town of Grindavik, which was evacuated due to volcanic activity. /Marko Djurica/Reuters

Even if the volcano doesn't erupt in Grindavik, it will still take many months to repair the damaged streets and buildings. Residents will have to be patient before they can move back to their homes.

‌The lava is now expected to erupt a few kilometers away from the village threatening to damage the Svartsengi power plant which is the only power supply for the Reykjanes region. Construction works of defense walls are continuing around the clock.

‌Despite the lower risk to public safety, the situation in Southern Iceland remains tense and uncertain.

Iceland residents return as likely volcano eruption site moved

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