Góðan og blessaðan daginn!
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A quick volcano update
At the time of writing we are still waiting for the eruption to begin. Seismic activity has slowed, but it did that prior to the last three eruptions, as well. Scientists still expect there to be an eruption, though exactly when, or where, no one knows. The main activity has moved away from the town of Grindavík again, but the earthquakes over the past weekend have left devastation in the town and it is clear that residents will not be returning home any time soon. Since the earthquakes slowed residents have been allowed to enter the town under strict monitoring and supervision, to fetch their essential belongings and their animals, some of which were left behind. It is obvious, though, that many buildings are ruined beyond repair. The Red Cross has launched a collection for the people of Grindavík, many of whom are foreign nationals. There are also some asylum seekers who dwelt in the town. Those groups are most vulnerable, since unlike most of the Icelanders, they do not have family who can take them in. If you wish to donate to the emergency response for the people of Grindavík, please use the button below.
Large-scale work has also begun to raise protective barriers around the Svartsengi power plant and the Blue Lagoon, in case the eruption begins there. That work is ongoing, around the clock.
In which the Icelanders show their mettle
It is amazing to witness the Icelanders’ response to this crisis—and, for that matter, to any crisis. It has often been said that Icelanders excel at times like this, and it really is true. This nation has been through so much over the centuries, endless natural disasters, that responding to crises is virtually built into our DNA. On a normal day we can endlessly bicker and argue about any number of things, but when a tragedy or a crisis hits, our political leanings or life choices suddenly do not matter—we are a family, and everyone bands together to help one another.
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