Italy: Explosive eruption observed at Mount Stromboli Volcano, Sicily Region, July 11 /update 1

Officials with the Italian Institute for Geosciences and Volcanology have observed further volcanic activity at Mount Stromboli Volcano in the Aeolian Islands, Sicily Region, July 11. An explosive eruption occurred at the volcano between around 14:07-14:10 July 11, producing an ash cloud rising to around 1,800 meters (6,000 feet) and pyroclastic flows reaching the sea. Ash is being dispersed in a southerly direction. Increased seismic activity was also observed at the time of the eruption. Authorities have advised tourists and residents on the island to move away from beaches, and masks are being distributed to protect people from the ash. The Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) level was raised to the highest red level due to the eruption.

A gradual increase in activity has been reported at the volcano since late July 3 and new lava flows and pyroclastic flows were observed July 4 and reached the sea. The increased volcanic activity has prompted civil protection authorities to raise the alert level for the volcano to the highest red level July 4. Authorities have not issued any evacuation orders as of July 11; however, plans have been readied to evacuate the island's around 500 inhabitants in case of further explosive activity. 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.

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 have been reported at Catania-Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) in Catania in recent days due to ongoing volcanic activity at Mount Etna Volcano and eruptive activity at Stromboli could exacerbate the situation.