Mount Etna, a stratovolcano located on the island of Sicily, Italy, and renowned for its persistent activity, experienced a notable resurgence in volcanic activity. Following a period of escalating seismic unrest and heightened degassing, the eruption commenced on July 4th with a powerful Strombolian explosion from the Voragine crater.
The paroxysmal event generated a substantial plume of volcanic ash and gases reaching an altitude exceeding 3 kilometers. Prevailing winds dispersed the ash plume towards the southeast, resulting in the temporary closure of Catania International Airport and causing minor ashfall in surrounding areas. The eruption also produced effusive activity in the form of lava flows emanating from fissures on the flanks of the volcano.