In 1973, Icelanders fought a volcano--and won

More information Adding us as a Preferred Source in Google by using this link indicates that you would like to see more of our content in Google News results. No one had ever tried to fight a volcano--until some brave Icelanders tried to in 1973. Breakthroughs, discoveries, and DIY tips sent six days a week. By signing up, you confirm you are 16+, will receive newsletters and promotional content and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy . On January 23, 1973, the 5,000 residents of the tiny Icelandic island of Heimaey--located in the Westman archipelago just four miles off Iceland's southern coast--woke up to the Earth splitting open.