Iceland volcano eruption: It's not the lava going viral, but the breathtaking photos — see them here

A spectacular volcanic eruption started on Wednesday, July 16, where lava is seen erupting from a massive fissure on the Sundhnúkur crater row in Iceland, and the breathtaking images taken from above the sky have gone viral as it is the most captivating view, as per a report.

Look at the viral photos of Iceland's volcanic eruption

Shared by Iceland's Civil Protection Department, the photos show lava erupting from the ground like a firewall, illuminating the landscape as per Livescience report.

ALSO READ: Jerome Powell’s job on the line? Scott Bessent confirms Fed chair replacement process is underway

How did Iceland's volcanic eruption begin?

The fissure had opened following a swarm of earthquakes, with the eruption starting at 3:56 a.m. local time, as reported by the Icelandic Met Office (IMO). By noon, the eruption had extended to a second fissure, according to the report. The two fissures are estimated to be approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) in length and 1,600 feet (500 meters) in length, respectively, as reported by Livescience.

It was like the previous eruptions that had hit the area in the past few years, as this eruption took place before magma had hit its peak, according to the report. IMO representatives said, "Before the eruption began, the amount of magma that had accumulated under Svartsengi was about 2/3 of the amount that erupted from there in the last eruption," as quoted by Livescience.

Where is its location?

Iceland's Civil Protection Department revealed that it is located between Stóra-Skógfell and Sýlingarfell on Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula, as per the report. The current activity is close in distance to where magma flows occurred during previous eruptions, as reported by Livescience. This part of southwest Iceland is popularly known for volcanic activity, as there have been many similar eruptions in recent years, according to the report.

ALSO READ: Cracks in most powerful alliance? France, Italy break ranks — refuse to join US-led NATO arms deal for Ukraine

What are “witches’ hairs”?

While the IMO pointed out that the formation of "witches' hairs" that are being carried by the wind, according to the report. IMO representatives said, "These are tiny glass fibers that form when lava flows cool rapidly and expand," and added that, "They are light and can travel long distances. Witches' hairs can cause discomfort to the skin and eyes, and people are therefore urged to be careful outdoors near the eruption sites," as quoted in the report.

FAQs

When did the eruption start?
It began at 3:56 a.m. local time on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, as per the Livescience report.

Is this similar to past eruptions?
Yes, but this eruption happened before magma reached its previous peak levels, as per the Livescience report.