Italy’s Mount Etna erupts again, spews lava and ash plume, forcing tourists to flee

Mount Etna Wakes Again, Spews Ash and Lava Into Sky

Mount Etna erupted on Monday, sending plumes of ash and streams of lava from its Southeast Crater, according to Italy’s volcano monitoring agency. No immediate threat was reported to surrounding towns or air travel.

The National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) said the eruption featured “almost continuous” explosions that grew in intensity through the morning. By midday, the activity escalated into a lava fountain, with infrared footage showing molten rock flowing down the slopes.

Intensifying Eruptions and Volcanic Display

A video released earlier by the institute showed a towering column of ash rising into the sky, darkening the horizon. INGV Vulcani posted updates on social media, confirming the transformation from explosive bursts to a full lava fountain.

The display drew attention but caused no immediate concern. The local population, long used to the volcano’s behaviour, remained unaffected.

Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, has started erupting, sending tourists fleeing for their lives as the smoke plume rises. pic.twitter.com/lAFLQ7bGS6
Bruce Snyder (@realBruceSnyder) June 2, 2025

Europe’s Most Active Stratovolcano Remains Unpredictable

Mount Etna, located on the island of Sicily, is Europe’s most active volcano and the most active stratovolcano in the world. Known for its conical shape and frequent eruptions, it has built itself over thousands of years with repeated lava flows.

The volcano last erupted over a year ago, producing rare smoke rings known as vortex bubbles. While ash from Etna occasionally blankets nearby towns, its eruptions have caused little harm in recent years. The volcano has erupted annually for the past several years, often without major incident.

Despite its fiery show, officials say the situation is being closely monitored. For now, Mount Etna continues to remind the world of its restless nature.