Iceland violent volcanic flare-up triggers state of emergency

A state of emergency has been declared in southern Iceland because of a volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula - the fourth since December.

Lava has reached the eastern defences around the small, evacuated town of Grindavik, local media said.

The powerful and fast lava flows began late on Saturday - but the authorities say they have since diminished significantly.

Activity around the fissure - initially 3km long (1.9 miles) - has dissipated. read more