Catania, Italy - Mount Etna, the towering stratovolcano located on the east coast of Sicily, Italy, erupted on the evening of November 13, 2023, at approximately 18:00 local time. The eruption unleashed a plume of ash and smoke that reached several kilometers into the sky, accompanied by observable lava flows on the southeastern flank of the volcano.

Sicily’s Mount Etna volcano has begun to erupt, with impressive footage being published on social media

Etna, one of the most active volcanoes, previously erupted in August, compelling the operation of the Catania airport to be suspended.

As the tallest active volcano in Europe and the highest peak in Italy south of the Alps, Mount Etna is situated in the Metropolitan City of Catania, nestled between the cities of Messina and Catania. Its location above the convergent plate margin between the African Plate and the Eurasian Plate contributes to its volatile nature.

A renowned tourist destination, Mount Etna attracts visitors with its dramatic landscapes, featuring lava flows, craters, and ash plumes. The site holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The ongoing eruption has prompted the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) to closely monitor the situation. The volcanic activity has resulted in disruptions in the area, notably the closure of Catania Fontanarossa Airport. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries or significant damage thus far.

Mount Etna has a history of regular eruptions, with most being relatively minor. However, the largest eruption in recent history occurred in 1981, leading to the destruction of several villages.

In response to the eruption, the INGV issued a warning advising people to steer clear of the eruption area and to avoid contact with ash and volcanic gases. The situation is dynamic, and authorities continue to assess and manage potential risks associated with the volcanic activity.