Etna Eruption Forces Tourists to Flee; Air Traffic Disrupted

Mount Etna's Eruption Sends Tourists Fleeing On Monday, June 4th, 2025, Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano, erupted, sending a massive plume of ash and smoke 6400 meters into the air. The unexpected eruption caused a scramble among tourists hiking the volcano, who were forced to flee for their safety. Air traffic in the region was also temporarily disrupted due to the ash cloud. "It was terrifying," said one tourist who witnessed the event. "We were just walking along, enjoying the views, when suddenly this enormous cloud of ash and smoke erupted from the crater. We had to run." While no injuries were reported, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of volcanic activity. The eruption comes after a period of increased activity at Mount Etna, which has been producing smaller eruptions since mid-March. Italian authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have implemented safety measures to protect the public. Despite the dramatic events, the swift evacuation and lack of injuries highlight the effectiveness of the monitoring and response systems in place. The situation underscores the importance of preparedness and vigilance in areas with active volcanoes.