Volcanic eruptions paralyze tourism to Sicily

Severe disruptions are hitting travelers at Catania Airport, a key gateway to Sicily, due to recent eruptions from Mount Etna, Europe's highest and most active volcano. The eruptions have significantly intensified, causing widespread travel chaos.

The Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia in Catania confirmed the extent of the ash plume from Mount Etna. Normal operations at Catania Airport have since resumed, but the summer tourist season in Sicily faces ongoing uncertainty.

Mount Etna's latest eruption has spewed ash up to 4.35 kilometers into the air, leading to temporary closures of nearby airspace. This has resulted in the cancellation of at least 90 flights, impacting around 15,000 passengers. Additionally, the nearby Stromboli volcano, located on the Aeolian Islands, has also erupted, further complicating travel plans in the region.

Airlines have been severely affected, with Ryanair canceling 42 flights, the highest among the carriers. EasyJet also faced disruptions, issuing apologies to passengers for the cancellations caused by the volcanic activity at Catania Airport. Many passengers found themselves on diverted flights, some arriving at Palermo Airport, a four-hour drive from Catania.

Italy’s Civil Protection Department has issued warnings that these eruptions are not isolated incidents. The country, home to many active volcanoes, particularly in southern Italy, remains on high alert. Authorities have advised both locals and tourists to follow official guidance and avoid restricted areas near the volcanoes.

Catania's Mayor, Enrico Trantino, has implemented safety measures including a temporary ban on two-wheeled transport and a speed limit of 30 km/h due to ash-covered roads. Despite the frequent eruptions of Mount Etna, tourist activities in the area generally continue with precautions in place.

Stromboli's activity has also escalated, prompting Italy’s Civil Protection Department to issue a red alert. The volcano's eruptions have generated a two-kilometer high smoke plume and lava flows into the sea. Precautionary measures have been enacted on nearby islands, and evacuation plans are ready if needed. Authorities continue to monitor both volcanoes closely, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to minimize risks during these natural events.