Italy’s Mount Etna has erupted, sending large plumes of ash into the air. The volcano, one of the world’s most active, experienced a series of explosions on Monday morning, prompting warnings from geologists. According to the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV), the eruption appears to have occurred at the south eastern edge of the volcano, where a known vent is located.
The INGV reported that ground movements indicated a possible collapse of part of the volcano’s crater, which is believed to be causing the pyroclastic flow. This flow can be hazardous to nearby areas but has not been deemed a significant threat.
The eruption was initially classified as a “Strombolian” event, characterized by intermittent explosions due to gas in the magma chamber. A red alert was reportedly issued earlier on Monday, prompting flight disruptions and warnings for tourists. However, this alert has since been downgraded.
While flights were suspended briefly, the full extent of the eruption’s impact is currently unclear. The volcano’s previous notable eruption in February caused significant disruptions at Catania airport and forced tourists to stay away from lava flows.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy5e7vx2pk9o