Iceland is no stranger to lava and ash, since the country is home to over 30 active volcanic ranges. The Fagradalsfjall eruption, however, was one of the most remarkable of recent times, and it was recorded here by the courageous photographer Olivier Grunewald.
After lying dormant for almost 800 years, the volcano in the Reykjanes area, close to the capital city of Reykjavk, erupted in March 2021. Slow, effusive flow of lava (rather than volatile explosions) meant that the surrounding area was largely safe for the hundreds of thousands of visitors eager to catch a glimpse of what turned out to be the longest-lasting eruption Iceland has seen in half a century.
This stunning picture, captured in June of 2021, shows the centre crater of Fagradalsfjall ablaze with lava, creating a lake of molten rock that cascades down the mountain’s sides. “Volcanoes generally fascinate me by their beauty, their power, and by the feeling of being in contact with the forces that created our planet,” said Grunewald, who has photographed such events for over 25 years.
He also notes that this is potentially hazardous activity, but that it may be done safely with the aid of an observer and the use of appropriate safety gear.
Fagradalsfjall isn’t finished yet, despite its calm demeanour. It started erupting again in the beginning of August 2022 (though there has been no observable activity since the middle of the month), and volcanologists worry it might continue erupting for a while.
FAQs
Q1: When did the Fagradalsfjall volcano erupt?
A1: The Fagradalsfjall volcano erupted in March 2021 after lying dormant for nearly 800 years, becoming one of the most remarkable eruptions in recent times.
Q2: What type of lava flow characterized the eruption?
A2: The eruption was characterized by slow, effusive lava flow rather than volatile explosions, making the surrounding area mostly safe for visitors.
Q3: Who captured the stunning eruption image?
A3: The courageous photographer Olivier Grunewald captured the stunning image of the Fagradalsfjall volcano eruption in June 2021.
Q4: How does the photographer describe his fascination with volcanoes?
A4: Olivier Grunewald is fascinated by the beauty, power, and the feeling of being in contact with the forces that created our planet, which is why he has been photographing volcanic events for over 25 years.
Q5: Is visiting the erupting Fagradalsfjall volcano hazardous?
A5: Yes, visiting an erupting volcano can be potentially hazardous. However, with the assistance of an observer and appropriate safety gear, it can be done safely.
