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Thrillseekers ignored warnings and flocked to Iceland’s erupting Volcano

Wednesday, 20/12/2023, 16:18 (GMT+7)

Despite the warning, several thrillseekers flocked to Iceland’s erupting volcano to capture photos.

A volcano in Iceland spectacularly erupted on Monday, leaving the authorities not only to evacuate thousands of people from the dangerous area but also to warn other people to stay away from the volcano.

Thrillseekers ignored warnings and flocked to Iceland’s erupting Volcano 1

However, numerous thrillseekers ignored the warning and flocked to Iceland’s erupting volcano to capture photos and record the incredible, once-in-a-lifetime nature.

The volcano erupted on Monday evening, leaving numerous tourists stunned when they witnessed the spewing lava and smoke 

During Monday night and Tuesday morning, the Reykjanes volcano continued to spew fiery lava and clouds of thick black smoke, leaving the travelers shocked. The flights both took off and landed in the island nation amidst the volcanic activity.

Thrillseekers ignored warnings and flocked to Iceland’s erupting Volcano 2
Thrill-seekers flock to Iceland's erupting volcano site despite warnings. Image Credit: AFP

On some of the flights to Suomi in Finland, all passengers had a bird’s-eye view of rivers of orange magma flowing against the dark when they flew over the volcano in the southwest of the country.

The tourists who were momentarily marooned on the international Keflavik airport runway in Reykjavik shared videos of themselves witnessing the reddening of the sky due to magma and flames. 

Thrillseekers ignored warnings and flocked to Iceland’s erupting Volcano 3
Despite official warnings, thrill-seekers continue to observe the volcano. Image Credit: AFP

The Icelandic government claimed that the eruption does not currently 'present a threat to life.' 

Despite the incredible and awe-inspiring nature of the volcanic eruption at Sundhnuksgígar, it left numerous tourists scared. Although it's not considered life-threatening, thousands of residents were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Authorities warn tourists to stay away from the volcano to ensure their safety

Authorities added that “international flight corridors remain open.”

Thrillseekers ignored warnings and flocked to Iceland’s erupting Volcano 4
Residents of the area observe the billowing smoke caused by the volcanic eruption's lava, which turns the night sky orange. Image Credit: AFP

Authorities have issued strong warnings against approaching the area due to safety concerns and to avoid disruptions to emergency response efforts

Police field commander Hjálmar Hallgrímsson said: “We ask people to allow us to assess this situation; this is not a tourist attraction." 

In the interview with the Telegraph, he emphasized: “This is many times more powerful." 

Thrillseekers ignored warnings and flocked to Iceland’s erupting Volcano 5
They have also been approaching the volcano to get a closer look. Image Credit: AFP

Thrill-seekers flock to Iceland's erupting volcano site despite warnings

Despite the evacuation of thousands, crowds of onlookers continue to converge on the perilous site to witness incredible nature.

As reported by the Mirror,  a line of cars was observed attempting to approach the scene as the eruptions occurred.

Thrillseekers ignored warnings and flocked to Iceland’s erupting Volcano 6
The tourist from the United States clambered, “It’s just something from a movie!”. Image Credit: AFP

Local residents in Iceland told local media that they always travel to see the eruptions in Reykjanes. While another tourist from the United States claimed, “It’s just something from a movie!”

The incredible erupting volcano continued to draw thrillseekers despite the evident risks associated with getting closer to the unfolding natural event.