Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula faces new volcanic eruption threat

A volcanic eruption on Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula has prompted emergency teams to reinforce defensive barriers around the town of Grindavik as lava flows towards it. The eruption, the fourth in the region since December, has opened a nearly 3km-long fissure, with lava flowing mainly south and south-east at a rate of about 1km an hour. While flows appeared to be slowing somewhat, they still pose a danger to infrastructure in and around Grindavik. The town's 3,800 inhabitants were evacuated, and nearby attractions, such as the Blue Lagoon thermal spa, were also affected. Iceland, home to 33 active volcano systems, is experienced in dealing with frequent eruptions, with the most recent disruptive event being the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption.