Mount Etna Erupts, Disrupts Sicily Tourism Amid Aviation Warnings

Mount Etna in Sicily erupted early Monday, producing a towering ash cloud, strombolian explosions, and a moderate lava flow, which surprised many tourists including Swedish and American visitors. Despite a brief red aviation warning, Catania Airport remained open with only minor disruptions, although authorities continue monitoring the situation closely as the region enters its busy travel season. Tourists on guided hikes faced sudden danger, with some forced to flee rapidly as the eruption intensified, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the volcano despite safety measures and summit access restrictions. Local officials and Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology reassured residents that the situation is under control and typical of Etna's ongoing activity, which has seen over a dozen eruptions this year. Visitors are advised to heed local warnings and stay informed about ash advisories, particularly in areas like Piano Vetore where minor ashfall occurred. The eruption serves as a dramatic reminder of the powerful natural forces shaping life and tourism in eastern Sicily.