Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, erupted violently on the Italian island of Sicily, spewing ash and smoke high into the sky and sending tourists fleeing in panic, according to footage shared on social media.
The eruption occurred late Sunday night and continued into the early hours of Monday. Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) confirmed that Etna was undergoing intensifying strombolian eruptions, characterized by frequent bursts of molten lava, ash, and gases.
Ashfall and Earth Tremors Preceded the Eruption
A light ashfall was reported in the Piano Vetore area near the volcano. According to the Volcanic Discovery website, volcanic tremors began around 10:00 PM local time and reached their peak just before 1:00 AM.
Aviation Alert: Ash Plume Reaches 6,400 Meters
The Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) in Toulouse, which monitors volcanic activity that can affect air travel, issued an alert stating that Etna’s ash cloud had reached an altitude of approximately 6,400 meters (21,000 feet). This poses a potential hazard for aviation, particularly in the central Mediterranean airspace.
No Immediate Reports of Injuries
As of now, no injuries have been reported, though emergency services remain on alert. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and may impose travel or access restrictions in surrounding areas if conditions worsen.
Europe’s Most Active Volcano Lives Up to Its Reputation
Mount Etna, located near the city of Catania, is known for its frequent eruptions and is a popular destination for hikers and geotourism. Despite its beauty, the volcano remains a persistent threat to nearby communities and aviation routes.
