Mount Etna's Eruption Sends Smoke Billowing Across Sicily

Mount Etna Erupts in Sicily: Smoke Plume and Evacuations Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano, erupted on Monday, June 2nd, 2025, sending a massive plume of smoke into the sky and prompting evacuations in the surrounding areas of Sicily, Italy. The eruption began after a period of increased volcanic activity, with tremors felt the previous evening. The Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) reported a significant rise in seismic activity in the early hours of Monday. "Volcanic activity picked up in the early hours of Monday," stated a spokesperson from INGV. "Tremors began to be felt on Sunday evening." Video footage shows the dramatic eruption, with dark grey and brown smoke billowing from the volcano. Authorities issued a red warning for flights overhead due to the ash cloud, a precaution later downgraded to orange as the situation stabilized. Despite the impressive display, the eruption did not affect operations at the nearby Catania airport. The INGV continues to monitor Mount Etna's activity. While Etna's eruptions are frequent, this event serves as a reminder of the volcano's power and the importance of ongoing monitoring and preparedness.