Sicily’s Mt. Etna Erupts, Sending Tourists Fleeing

Europe’s tallest active volcano, Mount Etna, has erupted dramatically, leading to the evacuation of tourists. The eruption occurred on the Italian island of Sicily, producing a plume of high-temperature gases, ash, and rock that rose several kilometers into the sky. The explosions from the eruption were heard as far away as Taormina and Catania. The National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology Observatory reported a partial collapse of the volcano’s southeast crater. Tourists hiking on Mt. Etna were able to leave safely. There are no reports of injuries or property damage, but travelers are advised to stay updated with local news for guidance.