Iceland Scientists Hopeful Volcano Will Spare Town Amid Imminent Major Eruption

Scientists in Iceland are predicting a major volcanic eruption within days, causing hundreds of earthquakes a day. While the town of Grindavik, located 40 miles southwest of Reykjavik, is at risk, scientists are increasingly optimistic that it may be spared. Residents have been allowed back temporarily to rescue their belongings, but uncertainty remains as the ground continues to subside. The eruption is expected to manifest through fissures in the ground rather than from the top of a mountain. The government is working to support the 4,000 displaced people and protect critical infrastructure, such as geothermal power stations. The eruption is not expected to be as explosive or disruptive as the Eyjafjallajokull eruption in 2010.