An intense phase of Strombolian activity is underway at the summit craters of Mount Etna, accompanied by a powerful emission of volcanic ash. The height of the ash column cannot be accurately estimated at this time.
This activity was observed through visual and thermal monitoring conducted by experts from the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) at the Etna Observatory in Catania. The institute has issued a highest-level alert for air traffic, a red code Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA).
The current eruptive phase of Europe’s tallest active volcano does not impact the full operational status of Catania’s Vincenzo Bellini International Airport.