Lava Flow Over Snow Near Grindavik Stuns Viewers

Icelandic videographer Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove captured footage of lava flowing over snow near Grindavik, which went viral for the surprising absence of steam, explained by the Leidenfrost Effect. This effect creates a vapor layer between the hot lava and snow, preventing immediate melting. The video has sparked debate about its authenticity, with some suggesting it might be AI-generated. Nieuwenhove emphasized how nature can surprise us, challenging misconceptions influenced by movies. Additionally, a study on glaciers near volcanoes indicates they flow 46% faster due to volcanic heat, providing insights for predicting eruptions. Researchers are exploring how these findings could enhance volcanic activity monitoring.