26 Dec 2018 | 09:05 AM UTC
Italy: 4.8 magnitude earthquake hits Mount Etna area December 26 /update 2
Overnight December 25-26 a 4.8-magnitude earthquake hits area near the Mount Etna injuring four people
Event
A 4.8-magnitude earthquake hit the area near the Mount Etna (Catania province; Sicily) overnight December 25-26, at a depth of 1 km (0.6 mi), following the eruption of the mount on December 24. At least four people were injured and several buildings damaged. Road closure have been reported in the area, however the Catania-Fontanarossa International Airport (CTA) has been reopened on December 25 following its closure the day prior due to the eruption. Further aftershocks are possible in the coming hours.
Context
A massive explosion rocked Mount Etna resulting in a huge plume of ash on December, leading to the closure of the airspace above the CTA airport.
Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and is the highest elevation volcano in mainland Europe. It is commonly active multiple times per year and last saw a major eruption in 1992. Local residents reported several earthquakes across the region, including in Catania, before the December 24 eruption.
Advice
Individuals traveling to and from CTA are advised to confirm the status of their flight prior departing for the airport and allow for extra time to reach their destination.
