Mount Etna is considered the most active volcano present in Europe in the city of Italy. The eruption began early in the night with smoke emerging from the volcano, as per the scientists. However, it caught the attention of the citizens and the tourists on the morning of 2 June 2025. Fragments of Lava and ashes started to burst out of the volcano creating panic throughout the city.
According to Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV), the eruption began at 10 p.m. on Sunday and intensified until lava and ash started popping out from the volcano. A strong seismic activity was observed 2.8 km beneath the crater of the volcano just 3 hours after the first indication of eruption. Images and videos of the eruption of Mount Etna have filled all over social media and mainly show tourists who are running down the hills in panic.
What is INGV’s statement on the eruption of Mount Etna?
INGV has been constantly tracking the volcanic activity since Sunday night. At 11:55 am, the institute reported a continuous rise in the volcanic terror levels, which started with Strombolian events in the volcano.
The institute has captured thermal images of Mount Etna and its eruption and found some volcaniclastic debris flowing down the slope of Mount Etna. However, the material hasn’t infiltrated the Valley of Lions till now.
The Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre has also declared a code ‘red’ to give the citizens a sign for aviation and the possible threat of volcanic eruptions reaching the city. However, it was later turned orange to be alert and ready in case of any mishap. The whole city is in a state of tension, while the tourists have already started leaving the city for their safety.
In what direction is the material flowing down?
After the eruption, the volcanic material is seen drifting towards the southwest region of the slope. The ashfall was reported to have slightly reached the Piano Vetore but hasn’t caused any damage to the area as of now.
As Mount Etna is situated near Catania, measures are taken to detect the volcanic activity and to inform the public about the same. It is important to track the activities due to the proximity of the volcano to air routes and the rest of the city.
Moreover, the institute has only asked the public not to panic and to be careful for the next few hours. They have asked them to stay updated with the volcanic activity and be ready in case of need for aviation.
Conclusion
Italy is under a panic situation due to the early morning eruption of Mount Etna. However, the citizens are advised to stay home until further indication by INGV. Volcanoes are unpredictable and can burst at any point of time. But the main concern arises when they are at such a close proximity to the populated areas. Thus, measures are required to ensure the safety of the citizens living there.
