On June 2, 2025, visitors to Sicily found themselves running for safety as Mount Etna, one of Europe’s most active volcanoes, erupted unexpectedly. The explosion sent dark clouds of gas, rock, and ash soaring into the air. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries or fatalities, but dramatic videos circulating on social media show hikers in a frantic rush to escape the mountain's slopes.
FlightAware reported that over 20 percent of flights arriving at Catania Airport experienced delays due to the volcanic activity, although authorities emphasized that local populations remained safe. The National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology confirmed the explosions were largely restricted to the summit area that was off-limits to tourists, describing the activity as “strong intensity.” They later updated the public via Facebook, declaring that the volatility for the day had ceased.
As a well-frequented attraction, Mount Etna is a major draw for tourists, with more than a million visitors annually. However, in recent years, authorities have grappled with tourists who underestimate the dangers of approaching such a powerful natural phenomenon. Mt. Etna, known for its steep cone shape and frequent activity, has had multiple eruptions in recent months, the last major one occurring in February.
Among the tourists was Hannah Camper, who, along with her partner Charlie, was vacationing nearby when they noticed plumes of smoke from the volcano. Though aware of its active status, Hannah expressed uncertainty regarding the situation and mentioned they did not receive emergency alerts, even as ash clouds intensified. “We were waiting to hear something, but nothing came through,” she recounted.
Sicily, famous as the backdrop for the hit television show "The White Lotus," continues to attract tourists despite challenges like extreme heat and wildfires.
