Iceland is deploying one of the largest bulldozers around – the $1.5M, 104-ton Caterpillar D11, in an attempt to disrupt potential lava flows by excavating three-mile-long trenches.
This operation, underway amid fears of an eruption from the Fagradalsfjall volcano, is a precautionary measure to minimize the potential strain on infrastructure. Fagradalsfjall is located in the southwest of the country, near the capital of Reykjavík.
According to the National Post, The defensive trenches will be located near the Svartsengi geothermal power plant, which provides hot water to a heating system servicing approximately 20,000 residents on the Reykjanes Peninsula and another 25,000 in neighboring communities.
In addition, Grindavik, a town adjacent to the volcano, continues to experience severe subsidence as magma amasses a few hundred meters beneath the surface. This has resulted in substantial infrastructural damage, including ruptured roads and buildings. A substantial defensive wall is currently under construction to safeguard the Svartsengi power plant from potential lava flows.
The region has experienced continuous seismic activity with over 400 tremors recorded since yesterday. The Geological Survey also reports widening of a 2,000-year-old fissure. The eastern section of Grindavik is reportedly without power due to potential ruptures in power lines caused by the earth’s continued movement.
Experts warn that the magma, presently just 500 meters below the surface, may lead to an imminent eruption. While some are hopeful the magma may cool down and solidify, the constant tremors indicate that significant activity continues beneath the surface.
