Magnificent photograph captures eruption of Fagradalsfjall volcano

Lava fills the central crater of an Icelandic volcano, taken by Olivier Grünewald, forming a fiery lake of lava

To Li Gege

With around 30 active volcanoes, Iceland is no stranger to lava and ash. But the eruption of Fagradalsfjar, which photographer Olivier Grnewald boldly captured here, is one of his most memorable of recent times.

It resumed activity in March 2021, breaking more than 800 years of volcanic dormancy in the Reykjanes area near the capital Reykjavik. Not only was this the longest-lasting eruption Iceland has seen in half a century, but its initial phase lasted nearly half a year, and its slow, erupting lava flows (rather than volatile outbursts) ) is safe for the hundreds of thousands of visitors eager to see most of the surrounding area.

This spectacular image taken in June 2021 shows the central crater of Fagradalsfjar filling with lava, forming a fiery lake of liquid rock that spills down its slopes. “Volcanoes fascinate me with their beauty, their power and the feeling of being in contact with the forces that created our planet,” says Grunewald, who has been photographing such events for over 25 years. say.

It can be dangerous work, he adds, but having lifeguards watching for risks and bringing protective equipment is enough to ensure safety.

Despite its relatively quiet nature, Fagradalsfjall isn’t over yet. It resumed eruptions in early August 2022 (although there has been no visible activity since later that month), and volcanologists warn that the eruption cycle could continue for several more years.