Tourists flocking to volcano are safe

Officials in Iceland say the opening of a second fissure and constant lava flow are not putting in danger hordes of tourists seeking a glimpse of a rare volcanic eruption.

Civil Protection Department Spokesman Vidir Reymissom says hikers are being drawn to the area in southern Iceland by the spectacular view of the lava flow.

He said Sunday tourists are in no danger even though a second fissure opened several days ago, releasing more lava.

He says initial fears that the eruption could trigger the dangerous melting of a nearby glacier have lessened unless conditions change.