Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, erupted early Monday morning, sending large plumes of ash and smoke into the sky above Sicily, Italy.
According to the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) Etna Observatory, a series of explosions of increasing intensity were recorded in the early hours, with volcanic material visibly spilling from the southeastern crater — an area where a known 200-meter-wide vent exists.
Pyroclastic Flow Observed
Dramatic footage shared on Monday captured a fast-moving pyroclastic flow — a hazardous mix of ash, gas, and rock — cascading down the slopes of the volcano. Geologists believe this may have been caused by a partial collapse of the crater, which released a rush of volcanic material.
Despite the intensity of the eruption, the disruption has been minimal, and there are no immediate threats reported to nearby communities. INGV confirmed that the flow has not advanced beyond the Valley of the Lion, a common stopping point for tourist treks toward the summit.
Flight Alerts and Strombolian Activity
The eruption was characterized as a Strombolian event, named after a type of volcanic activity known for intermittent bursts of lava and gas. These eruptions occur when gas bubbles trapped in the magma reach the surface and burst — much like gas escaping from a shaken bottle of soda.
While Strombolian eruptions are typically moderate, they can pose a significant hazard to aircraft due to ash plumes. A red alert was issued briefly on Monday, possibly resulting in temporary flight suspensions near the island of Sicily. The alert was later downgraded, and normal flight operations resumed.
Mount Etna’s last major eruption in February 2025 caused Catania Airport to divert several flights due to ash clouds and led authorities to restrict tourist access to active lava zones.
As of now, geological monitoring continues, and residents and visitors are being advised to stay informed through official channels.
