Source: cbsnews.com
Image content: The image shows a volcano erupting, sending a massive plume of dark ash and smoke high into the sky. The mountain slopes are visible below, with green patches and rugged terrain under a bright blue sky.
Summary
Mount Etna in Sicily erupted with escalating explosive activity, producing a towering ash plume, sustained lava fountain, and fast-moving pyroclastic flows likely triggered by a partial crater collapse at the Southeast Crater. Authorities temporarily issued a red aviation alert and closed summit areas, but reported minimal disruption overall: airports remained operational, local ashfall was light, and no nearby populations were threatened. The event, consistent with Etna’s frequent activity, delivered striking visuals and brief tourist evacuations without major impacts.
Key Points
- Partial collapse at Southeast Crater triggered lava fountain and pyroclastic flows
- Initial red aviation alert issued; airports largely unaffected and later downgraded
- Summit areas closed and tourists evacuated as a precaution
- Light ashfall reported locally; no significant threat to nearby populations
- Eruption aligns with Etna’s frequent, historically active behavior