Mount Etna eruption: Watch viral videos capturing moment of panic as tourists try to escape falling ash from volcano

Italy’s Mount Etna erupted violently on Monday, sending ash, gas, and rocks high into the sky while lava flowed down its slopes. Tourists near the summit were seen running for safety as loud explosions echoed up to 50 km away, according to Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology Observatory. The eruption, which began overnight, is said to be the most powerful since 2014.

Tourists escape unhurt as panic spreads

Viral videos on Twitter showed tourists running downhill in panic as the volcano spewed ash and rock fragments into the air. In several clips, thick clouds of dark ash were seen rapidly spreading across the sky while frightened visitors tried to flee. Some were heard shouting as the sound of explosions rumbled in the background.

A local tour company confirmed that about 40 visitors were near the southeast crater at the time of the eruption.

“Mt Etna erupting during our tour – all safe but it was scary!” wrote one tourist on X (formerly Twitter), posting footage of the eruption in real time.

No injuries or casualties have been reported.

Eruption caused partial crater collapse

The eruption has been classified as a pyroclastic event. Reports said a part of the northern flank of the southeast crater collapsed, releasing fast-moving gases, volcanic ash, and rock fragments down the slopes. Authorities said the lava remained within natural containment areas, and no evacuations were needed.

Authorities respond, airports affected

Sicily’s regional president, Renato Schifani, said emergency plans were in place. “There is no immediate threat to residents, and emergency protocols remain in place,” he said.

The Sicilian Civil Protection Agency issued a Volcanic Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA), asking aircraft to avoid the affected zone. Airports in Catania and Palermo continued operations, though some flights were delayed or diverted for safety.

Volcano remains under observation

Mount Etna, located on Sicily’s eastern coast, is one of the world’s most studied volcanoes and Europe’s most active stratovolcano. It draws over 1.5 million tourists every year.

Experts said the volcano had shown increased seismic activity and gas emissions in recent weeks. Volcanologists continue to monitor it for further signs of activity. Authorities have advised tourists not to hike near the summit until further notice.