Iceland is experiencing increased activity that signals an imminent volcanic eruption may occur. Over 700 earthquakes have struck the region on Tuesday, including quakes up to magnitude 3.1. This swarm is occurring along a fissure zone where magma is rising close to the surface, causing ground deformation. Additionally, scientists have detected high levels of sulfur dioxide gas which indicates magma is near ground level. The Icelandic Meteorological Office has warned that the likelihood of an eruption remains high. If an eruption does occur, it could spread lava over a long distance through open fissures in an eruptive fissure style similar to volcanoes in Hawaii. Nearby towns have been evacuated as a precaution.