Sicily’s iconic Mount Etna erupted on Monday, unleashing dramatic columns of smoke and ash into the sky in what has become the volcano’s 14th eruptive episode in recent months. The powerful spectacle, while visually striking, has not endangered surrounding populations, according to Italian authorities.
The eruption began with the partial collapse of Etna’s southeast crater, triggering flows of hot lava and prompting increased seismic activity. The National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) confirmed that the collapse led to the high plume of smoke and ash, which was visible for kilometers. Though tremors from the eruption were felt in surrounding villages and towns, no injuries or damages have been reported.
Catania’s airport authorities temporarily raised the alert level due to ash emissions, but air traffic operations were not interrupted. By late afternoon, INGV officials reported that the emission of ash had ceased, signaling a decline in volcanic activity.
As a safety precaution, access to Etna’s summit was suspended for tourists. The summit area remains the most hazardous zone, though excursions to the volcano are a major draw for visitors. Video footage circulating on social media showed tourists hastily retreating from mountain trails, with plumes of smoke rising ominously in the background.
Etna, standing at about 3,300 meters (nearly 11,000 feet), is Europe’s most active volcano. It spans a surface area of approximately 1,200 square kilometers (460 square miles), dominating eastern Sicily both geographically and culturally. Its eruptions, though frequent, are closely monitored and generally confined to non-populated areas.
Sicily’s regional president, Renato Schifani, reassured residents and visitors alike, stating that the lava flows remained within natural containment zones and posed no threat to human life or infrastructure.
While Etna’s volatile nature continues to shape the landscape and draw scientific interest, Monday’s eruption served as another reminder of nature’s raw power stunning to witness, yet fortunately contained. Authorities remain vigilant, monitoring for any renewed activity.
