Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, erupted on June 2, sending thick plumes of ash and lava into the skies over Sicily and prompting tourists to rush for safety.
The eruption created a dramatic scene, with towering smoke columns darkening the sky and forcing visitors to hastily descend the mountainside.
Dramatic footage captured the urgency of the moment as the volcanic activity intensified. Although no immediate threat to local residents has been reported, authorities remain on high alert and have advised the public to stay cautious while monitoring continues.
According to CBS News, officials have confirmed that there is no immediate danger to surrounding communities. However, the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre in Toulouse has issued a "code red" warning due to falling ash in popular tourist areas.
Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) reported “strong strombolian explosions of growing intensity” from the volcano. “Over the past few hours, the falling of a little thin ash has been flagged in the Piano Vetore area,” the institute noted.
Data from the Volcanic Discovery website shows that volcanic tremors began around 10 PM local time, reaching their peak just before 1 AM. The ash plume reportedly rose to about 6,400 meters. By midday, INGV Vulcani confirmed on social media that the Southeast Crater's eruption had evolved into a lava fountain. Infrared imaging also revealed lava streaming down the mountain slopes.
Mount Etna stands as the world’s most active stratovolcano — characterised by its steep, conical shape and central crater formed from repeated eruptions. It last erupted on February 11, shooting lava and ash from its 3,400-meter-high peak.