On June 2, 2025, Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano located on the Italian island of Sicily, erupted in a spectacular display of natural force. The eruption began in the early morning hours, with Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) reporting a sudden increase in seismic activity around 2:39 a.m. local time. This activity culminated in a powerful eruption from the volcano’s southeast crater, producing massive plumes of ash and smoke that rose approximately 6,400 meters (4 miles) into the atmosphere.
The eruption was characterized by intense strombolian activity—explosive bursts of lava and gas—and the formation of lava fountains. A partial collapse of the southeast crater’s rim triggered pyroclastic flows, which are fast-moving currents of hot gas and volcanic matter. These flows descended the mountain’s slopes but remained within the Valle del Leone, a high-altitude area frequented by hikers.
Tourists present on the volcano at the time captured dramatic footage of the eruption, showing people running down the mountainside as ash and smoke billowed above. Approximately 40 tourists were on the volcano during the eruption, but no injuries have been reported.
In response to the eruption, the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre in Toulouse issued a “code red” aviation warning due to the significant ash cloud. This warning was later downgraded to “orange” as conditions stabilized. While some flight delays were reported at Catania Airport, no major disruptions occurred.
Sicilian President Renato Schifani stated that the eruption is being closely monitored and currently poses no threat to nearby communities. Authorities have advised hikers and tourists to avoid the summit area until further notice.
Mount Etna stands approximately 3,300 meters (11,000 feet) tall and is one of the world’s most active volcanoes. It has a long history of eruptions, with the most devastating occurring in 1669 when lava flows buried parts of Catania and surrounding villages.
The current eruption is the 14th eruptive phase at Etna in recent months, highlighting the volcano’s persistent activity.
