Italy: Increased volcanic activity continues at Mount Etna, Sicily, as of May 22; flights disrupted at Catania Airport /update 1

Event

Officials with the Italian Institute for Geosciences and Volcanology report continued increased levels of volcanic activity at Mount Etna Volcano in Sicily on May 22. Explosive eruptive activity is occurring at the crater of the volcano, emitting an ash cloud.

As of May 22, Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) has re-opened for flight operations after a closure due to volcanic activity on May 21. However, flights remain delayed and disrupted through the afternoon of May 22. Further airport closures are possible. Despite the increased volcanic activity, authorities have not issued any mandatory evacuations for the surrounding area. Additional eruptions could cause low-level seismic activity, ash clouds, and landslides in the surrounding area.

Transport
Transport disruptions in the surrounding area are possible, especially if further significant eruptive events occur. Road conditions could quickly deteriorate during periods of significant ashfall, and visibility could be reduced. Officials might close roads near the volcano depending on the presence of hazardous volcanic material. Fine particulate matter ejected from the volcano could pose a hazard to flights in the surrounding airspace, and continued flight disruptions could occur at short notice.

Advice

Confirm flights to and from regional airports. Plan for possible transportation disruptions if operating near Mount Etna in the coming days. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving; due to reduced visibility, drive cautiously in areas affected by ash. Carry masks or face coverings and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation if operating in the affected area.