Swarm of earthquakes in Iceland herald next volcanic eruption

Scientists say rise in seismic activity confirms south-west region is in buildup phase

A seismic swarm has hit the Reykjanes peninsula in south-west Iceland with more than 5,500 small earthquakes in the last three days, raising the prospect of a volcanic eruption.

Located between the Eurasian and the North American tectonic plates, among the largest on the planet, Iceland is a seismic and volcanic hotspot as the two plates move in opposite directions.