Italy: Authorities raise alert to highest level due to increased volcanic activity at Mount Stromboli Volcano, Sicily Region, as of July 5

Officials with the Italian Institute for Geosciences and Volcanology have observed increased levels of volcanic activity at Mount Stromboli Volcano in the Aeolian Islands, Sicily Region, as of July 5. A gradual increase in activity has been reported since late July 3 and new lava flows and pyroclastic flows were observed July 4 and have reached the sea. Ash rising around 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) from the crater has also been observed. Activity has reportedly calmed down somewhat overnight July 4-5; however, further lava and pyroclastic flows, low-level seismic activity, ash clouds, and landslides are likely in the surrounding area over the coming hours and days.

The increased volcanic activity has prompted civil protection authorities to raise the alert level for the volcano to the highest red level. The Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) level was also raised to the highest red level July 4 before being downgraded to orange early July 5. Authorities have not issued any evacuation orders as of July 5; however, plans have been readied to evacuate the island's around 500 inhabitants in case of further explosive activity.

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; flight disruptions are ongoing at Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) in Catania as of July 4 due to ongoing volcanic activity at Mount Etna Volcano and the eruption at Stromboli could exacerbate the situation.