Active Volcano erupts in Italy, terrifying hikers | WATCH

Mount Etna, located on Sicily’s eastern coast and considered Europe’s most active volcano, erupted last night (Monday), causing panic among dozens of tourists who fled the area. According to reports, approximately 40 tourists on an organized tour were caught in the unusual event and forced to escape the mountain quickly. Social media footage shows tourists running down the slopes as a massive, dark cloud of ash rapidly rises into the sky.

Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) reported that local residents felt strong tremors around 23:00 (local time), with the eruption peaking in the early morning hours.

The eruption was accompanied by an ash cloud soaring over two kilometers high, spectacular but dangerous “lava fountains,” and deadly streams of gas, ash, and molten rock cascading down the mountain. Estimates suggest the eruption was triggered by a collapse of volcanic material on the mountain’s slope. Residents in nearby areas, including Piano and Torre, reported ashfall.

Due to the exceptional eruption, the Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) in Toulouse briefly issued a “red code” aviation warning, the highest level, due to the danger to air traffic. The warning was later downgraded to “orange code.” The ash cloud moved southwest, threatening to cover parts of the island. Despite concerns, airports in the region, including Catania’s, continued operations.

As of now, volcanic activity has weakened, but the ash cloud continues to hover over parts of the island. Authorities have instructed residents to stay indoors, close windows and doors, and warned visitors to avoid the area and follow guidelines. The Institute of Geophysics continues to monitor developments and cautioned that another wave of eruptions could occur in the coming days. Local monitoring systems are on alert for rapid evacuation if necessary.