Etna Erupts: Tourists Flee as Volcano Unleashes Ash and Lava

Mount Etna's Eruption Sends Tourists Fleeing On June 2nd, 2025, Mount Etna, the active volcano in Sicily, erupted, sending a plume of ash and smoke high into the sky. Tourists on the slopes were forced to evacuate as the volcano unleashed its fury. "It was terrifying," recounted one tourist, "we had to run as fast as we could to get away from the ash and smoke." The eruption followed seismic activity detected around midnight. While the lava flow was thankfully contained in the uninhabited Valle del Leone, the event prompted authorities to raise the aviation warning level to red. However, Catania Airport remained open, a testament to the preparedness of local authorities. Experts continue to monitor the volcano's activity, which is known for its frequent eruptions. Despite the dramatic visuals, the quick response and the lava's containment in a remote area prevented any major injuries or significant damage, offering a reassuring end to an otherwise alarming event.