A volcanic eruption at Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, is halting travel to and from Sicily.
Catania International Airport, located at the foot of the mountain, has been forced to delay, cancel, and divert some flights due to the eruption’s impact on visibility.
Credit: AFP
Smoke billowing from the Voragine crater has blanketed nearby towns in black volcanic ash since the eruption began last night.
While most flights are carried out as scheduled, those traveling to and from Catania may experience delays or diversions to other Sicilian airports like Palermo and Comiso.
Although Mount Etna erupts frequently, lava flows have not reached nearby towns since the 1800s. The ashfall, while inconvenient for residents, usually doesn’t pose a major problem for visitors.
Even during eruptions, numerous hiking trails and paths remain safe. However, it’s mandatory to be accompanied by a qualified local mountain guide for any hikes.
Despite the recent activity, Etna, with its more than 200 craters, continues to be a popular tourist destination.
