Mount Etna has erupted in Sicily, producing significant plumes of ash and smoke that can be seen rising from the iconic volcano. This eruption, reported early Monday morning, aligns with Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV), which noted a series of increasingly intense explosions. While the full extent of the volcanic activity is still being assessed, initial reports indicate that disruption to the surrounding region has largely been minimal.
Images and videos shared from around the area display volcanic materials cascading down from the southern eastern flank of the volcano, where experts identified a previously known vent. The eruption appears to have initiated after noticeable ground movements, suggesting a possible collapse of part of the volcano's crater. Notably, this has led to the emergence of a pyroclastic flow—a swift mix of ash, gas, and rock. Despite the potential hazards associated with these flows, no immediate threat has been identified for residents or tourists.
Monitoring agencies like INGV recorded the initial changes in volcanic activity shortly after midnight local time. The current eruption is classified as a "Strombolian" type, characterized by sporadic explosions caused by gas bubbles within the magma. This phenomenon can pose risks, particularly to aviation, and a red alert was initially issued, leading to temporary flight suspensions. However, this alert has since been downgraded, with authorities reassuring the public regarding safety protocols.
Earlier this year in February, a prior significant eruption from Mount Etna resulted in numerous flight diversions due to ash clouds affecting Catania Airport. As the volcano's activity continues to unfold, authorities have advised visitors to maintain distance from active lava flows to ensure safety.
Images and videos shared from around the area display volcanic materials cascading down from the southern eastern flank of the volcano, where experts identified a previously known vent. The eruption appears to have initiated after noticeable ground movements, suggesting a possible collapse of part of the volcano's crater. Notably, this has led to the emergence of a pyroclastic flow—a swift mix of ash, gas, and rock. Despite the potential hazards associated with these flows, no immediate threat has been identified for residents or tourists.
Monitoring agencies like INGV recorded the initial changes in volcanic activity shortly after midnight local time. The current eruption is classified as a "Strombolian" type, characterized by sporadic explosions caused by gas bubbles within the magma. This phenomenon can pose risks, particularly to aviation, and a red alert was initially issued, leading to temporary flight suspensions. However, this alert has since been downgraded, with authorities reassuring the public regarding safety protocols.
Earlier this year in February, a prior significant eruption from Mount Etna resulted in numerous flight diversions due to ash clouds affecting Catania Airport. As the volcano's activity continues to unfold, authorities have advised visitors to maintain distance from active lava flows to ensure safety.
