Mount Etna, located in Sicily, is currently undergoing a volcanic eruption, releasing clouds of ash into the atmosphere. The eruption has led to the cancellation of flights at Catania Airport, a popular hub for British holidaymakers. Social media footage captured the active volcano on the eastern coast of the Italian island, with ash starting to rise at approximately 7:45 a.m. and intensifying by 9 a.m.
Local reports indicate that ash emissions began around 8 a.m. from the stratovolcano’s eastern flank, escalating to form an eruptive cloud reaching 1.5 kilometers above the summit. As a safety precaution, incoming flights to Catania-Fontanarossa airport have been halted. Predictions suggest that the ash cloud will shift towards the southern and south-southeast sectors in the hours to come.
Videos depict the ongoing eruption of Mount Etna as beachgoers and locals witness thick smoke billowing from the volcano’s peak. Due to safety concerns, Catania Airport has suspended operations, closing sector B2 and reducing flight frequency to five per hour until 9 p.m. local time in response to the volcanic activity.