Eruption at Mount Etna: Hikers Evacuate as Lava Flows

On Monday, hikers atop Sicily’s Mount Etna faced a sudden eruption, leading to a surge of evacuations and disruptions for local travelers.

On June 2, 2025, tourists on the Italian island of Sicily were caught off guard by a sudden eruption of Mount Etna, one of Europe’s most active volcanoes. The explosive event sent towering clouds of gas, rock, and ash into the atmosphere, prompting visitors to hurriedly descend the mountain. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported. Eyewitness videos on social media captured the harrowing moments of hikers hastily retreating beneath the rising plumes.

Flight disruptions followed closely behind the volcanic activity, with over 20 percent of incoming flights to Catania Airport facing delays, as noted by FlightAware. Local authorities assured residents that there was no immediate danger, but the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology confirmed that the intense eruptions were confined to the mountain's summit, which was closed to visitors at the time. Those at lower altitudes received updates confirming the cessation of volcanic activity later in the day.

Nearby town residents watched in awe as the eruption unfolded, with many likely reflecting the experiences of the campers visiting Sicily. Hannah and Charlie Camper, a couple hailing from England, were vacationing a mere 10 miles from the volcano's center when the chaos unfolded. Although aware of Etna’s propensity for activity, the couple felt secure, believing it would remain manageable. They quickly turned to technology for updates, yet found themselves in the dark as the eruption escalated, leading them to capture footage of the lava flowing down the volcano.

While Mount Etna remains an iconic attraction, bringing millions of visitors each year, the increased frequency of tourism has raised concerns about safety awareness among travelers. Despite its magnificent views, Sicily has also been grappling with challenges such as extreme heat, wildfires, and water shortages, complicating its reputation as a sought-after travel destination.