Etna volcano woke up: impressive footage is posted on social media (video)
20 February 20:00
Europe’s most active volcano, Mount Etna, located in Sicily, has once again demonstrated its formidable power with a series of eruptions that began on February 8, 2025. Thousands of tourists have flocked to Mount Etna, some even skiing next to lava flows, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports, citing NASA information.
According to the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV), the eruption began on February 8, 2025, with signs of unrest that exceeded the usual level of activity of Mount Etna. By February 13, the Operational Land Imager (OLI) on the Landsat 8 satellite captured images of a significant lava flow extending approximately 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the Bocca Nuova crater down the volcano’s southwestern flank. Faint ash emissions were observed during this period, and it was reported that the explosive activity was decreasing.
The mesmerizing natural spectacle attracted thousands of tourists to the slopes of Mount Etna. However, the sudden influx of visitors led to chaotic situations: narrow roads became congested, and rescue services could not reach those who needed help. Salvo Cochina, head of Sicily’s regional civil protection, described the situation as “wild” and “extremely dangerous,” noting that many tourists parked haphazardly, obstructing emergency vehicles. Despite the warnings, many tourists braved the dangerous proximity of the advancing lava flows, and some even went skiing and snowboarding near the molten lava flows.
Meanwhile, authorities urged the public to keep a safe distance from the eruption site. Experts emphasize the unpredictability of volcanic activity, noting that sudden explosions can occur without warning. The combination of hot lava interacting with snow increases the risk of rapid vaporization, which can lead to explosive reactions. Despite these dangers, the lure of witnessing such a rare natural event continues to draw crowds, prompting officials to reiterate the importance of following safety rules.
The eruption also affected local infrastructure. Ash plumes have occasionally disrupted air traffic, leading to the temporary closure or rerouting of flights at nearby airports, including Catania. Residents of the surrounding areas were advised to wear masks to protect themselves from inhaling ash particles and to stay indoors to minimize exposure. The economic impact is twofold: while local businesses benefit from the influx of tourists, there are concerns about the long-term effects on agriculture due to ash deposits on crops.
What is known about Mount Etna
Mount Etna stands at approximately 3,357 meters and has one of the longest documented eruption histories, dating back to 425 B.C. Its frequent activity is both a source of fascination and a reminder of the dynamic geological processes that take place beneath the earth’s surface. The current eruption adds to this rich history, demonstrating the unwavering power and unpredictability of natural forces.
