A magnitude 3 earthquake struck near Askja volcano this morning, occurring just after 8:00 a.m. The quake was recorded 1.6 kilometers southeast of the geothermal crater Víti at a depth of 4.7 kilometers, signaling ongoing volcanic activity in the area.
The region has been experiencing continuous land uplift since July of last year, with satellite data and tilt measurements confirming steady inflation in the Askja volcanic system. Over the past twelve months, the land has risen approximately 12 centimeters. According to Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) estimates, the volume of magma accumulating beneath Askja is likely twice what had gathered prior to the Svartsengi eruption in August.
These findings emerged from IMO’s annual survey conducted at Askja in August, which included land measurements, temperature and acidity readings in Víti crater, and extensive gas sampling in the surrounding geothermal fields. Model calculations from IMO place the magma chamber at a similar location and depth as previously estimated, continuing to prompt close monitoring as Askja’s volcanic potential escalates.
