Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, has entered another eruptive phase, drawing crowds eager to see its spectacular lava flows. However, authorities warn that reckless tourism is worsening an already hazardous situation.
Rescue Efforts Hampered
Salvo Cocina, Sicily’s regional civil protection chief, described the situation as “wild and dangerous.”
He criticized visitors for parking their vehicles along narrow roads, preventing emergency crews from reaching those in need.
"With darkness, the risk of falls and deep snow hazards increases," Cocina warned.
On Sunday, an ambulance was unable to reach the eruption zone due to blocked access. In response, four volunteer groups have been mobilized to control the area, and local authorities have been asked to deploy police to manage crowds and traffic.
Despite these measures, several incidents have already occurred. According to 20minutos, eight hikers, including two minors, went missing on Monday and were only found after several hours. On Sunday, a 48-year-old man suffered a foot fracture after a fall, while four other individuals were briefly unaccounted for the previous night.
Flight Disruptions and Ash Clouds
The eruption is also causing significant disruptions to air travel. The airport in Catania, one of Sicily’s main transport hubs, has been forced to reroute flights due to volcanic ash.
In the past 24 hours alone, 32 flights have been diverted, and authorities have temporarily closed airspace southeast of the volcano.
Passengers have been advised not to head to the airport without confirming their flight status, as further cancellations remain possible.
Authorities continue to monitor the eruption closely, warning that ongoing explosions and ash emissions may lead to additional travel disruptions.
