Mount Etna, Europe’s largest and most active volcano, erupted violently in Sicily, unleashing a colossal cloud of black ash and lava. Terrified tourists were seen sprinting down the mountain as pyroclastic flows rained hot debris. The eruption began after late-night volcanic tremors and peaked at dawn, with lava fountains exploding from the southeast crater. Italy’s volcanology institute reported strong strombolian blasts. Ashfall reached the Piano Vetore area, while aviation warnings were issued as ash rose to 6,400 meters. This marks Etna’s most intense eruption since February 2025.
