Volcanic exodus - An Icelandic town's uncertain future | DW Documentary

Some of the commenters here don't understand that all of Iceland is volcanically active, just like all of the middle of the US has tornadoes. Grindavik hasn't seen lava in 800 years.... whereas Oklahoma city has been hit by multiple F5 tornadoes in my lifetime. So who, really, ought to move? Also Grindavik is a tenth of all Iceland's population; it's like one day Chicago had to evacuate. I hope longterm it's like Heimay which erupted in the 70s when I was a kid. that was the first time anyone had successfully diverted part of an erupton. They lost some of the town but they saved the harbori! and pipes into the fresh lava flow provided geothermal energy for the whole town when it rebuilt. Hopefully Grindavik can do the same and not be troubled for another 800 years when this is done. ( you might have to relocate slightly west of the g4wbdln but at least you might be able to get the town back together in about the same place. wishing you all the best Icelanders. I'm sorry that sometimes seem callous, either with discussions like this, or because we get fascinated by volcanic eruptions – it's scientifically and aesthetically interesting until it starts threatening real peoples lives and houses, and suddenly it's not fun anymore.

For those questioning locating a town where Grindavik is at, it’s important to bear in mind that most coastal towns grew around natural harbors of which there are very few along the southern coast of Iceland. There hadn’t been any volcanic activity in the area for 800 years. A town of 4000 inhabitants nay not seem like much to most people, but in Iceland, it’s considered a substantial settlement. Regards.

I don’t think the negative comments are appropriate. You have no idea of the impact on people and the geological forces underneath. People, less negativity and a bit more education.

The volcano has its own time and its own ideas. What a sad moment for Grindavik.

On one hand, you have to feel for the displaced residents who have little or no control over nature's workings on one of the most geologically active places on the planet due to the island sitting right on top of the Mid Atlantic Ridge. On the other hand, we can see how all of Iceland's volcanoes & fissures have shaped the island and how its residents live on it.

I've been following this story in the news. But you've done a great job of really showing what it's like for the people directly impacted by a volcano.

It is a heartbreaking story. I feel really sorry for the inhabitants of Grindavik. You're in my prayers 🙏

One of the most geologically dynamic regions on Earth.

In October of 2023 I became aware of what was taking place in Grindavik. I have been following since then. My prayers are with all the people who's lives have been so disrupted.

I have been to Iceland last month. Beautiful and unique country.

Thank you for this insight into the people of Grindavik and how they are coping with this astonishing disaster.

Interesting documentary. Such a shame for the people of the town. I was there in grindavik two years ago as a tourist love Iceland I will go back to visit again

Place has been there for 800 or more years, before we knew of faults and such. You all come in and say that they shouldn't have built a town there...how ignorant are you all, honestly? Y'all need to take a wider view in your life and the lives.of others.

I have been watching the Svartsengi area since November 2023, there has been eight eruptions since,we keep hoping for Grindavik to survive ,we watch the crews building defense all around the town and the power plant which is critical for the Reikjanes peninsula ,they are warriors,really brave and ingenious people ,God only knows the future of this beautiful fishing town ,nature is certainly unpredictable,thanks for this wonderful and concerning video,keep the faith ,many blessings !

My friends were effected to the north of us, it was pretty scary and sad how much people lost.

Losing your neighbours...your community...your life... I am deeply saddened by your situation... A truly magnificent place... 🇿🇦

I love Iceland and its people. I have visited several times, twice from Australia. I feel of the people of Grindavik, i must be so hard.

Ever since this started at the Sundnuhkur crater area, I've been full of sorrow for the people of Grindavik. I hope that the townspeople can find a place where they can at least gather several times a year. While I highly doubt that the town can be rebuilt where it is now due to the deep caverns and fissures underneath the cracks, I hope the harbor can be saved and continue to be used. Courage, Grindavikings. Sending you all my good wishes.

I passed by and stayed in Grindavik for a few hours back in 2019. It is slightly depressing to find what the town and its inhabitants have to go through. Hopefully, everyone will be able to move on and rebuild their lives.

Excellent documentary, DW! I'm not sure whether so many of the critical comments are bots or opps, but either way, they don't matter. Thanks for giving insight into the developments with the volcanic eruptions in Iceland. Love, from America. 💙🇮🇸🤍🇺🇸💙🇩🇪🤍