Iceland state of emergency after volcanic flare-up

Lava has reached the eastern defences around the small, evacuated town of Grindavik. Activity around the fissure - initially 3km long (1. 9 miles) - has dissipated. It is the fourth eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula since December.

The eruption began after 20:00 local time (20:00 GMT) on Saturday. This is a similar location to the eruption that began on 8 December. Two lava streams have been moving west and south. Local media reported that lava from the latter had reached Grindavik#39;s eastern defence walls.

Lava moving west is heading in the direction of the Blue Lagoon and a geothermal power plant, which provides hot water for most of the Reykjanes Peninsula. There are concerns that fibre optic cables on the road could be damaged - causing disruption to phone and internet services. Between 500-600 people in the area when the eruption happened. The Blue Lagoon is closed until further notice as a precaution.

The last time the Reykjanes Peninsula had a period of volcanic activity was 800 years ago - and the eruptions went on for decades.