El volcán Etna ha vuelto a estallar.

The Etna volcano has erupted again, causing partial closure of airspace over Sicily and disrupting operations at Catania Airport due to volcanic ash emissions. This latest activity occurred on Sunday morning, marking another episode of volcanic unrest in one of Europe’s most active volcanoes. The Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) confirmed that the eruption began around 05:45 GMT and intensified shortly after at 06:45 GMT, producing a plume of ash approximately 1.5 kilometers high, carried southward by prevailing winds.

The airspace closure was specifically targeted at sector B2, which lies south of the volcano, according to a statement released by the airport management company, Società Aeroportuale di Catania (SAC). While flights to and from Catania were suspended during this period, the airport continued its takeoff operations for aircraft already on the ground. The initial closure was scheduled to last until 19:00 local time (17:00 GMT), but officials warned that the dispersion of ash might continue into the following hours, depending on weather conditions.

Volcanic ash poses significant risks to aviation as it can damage jet engines and reduce visibility. In response to the situation, SAC advised passengers to check directly with their airlines for updates regarding flight schedules before traveling to the airport. This precautionary measure aims to minimize disruptions and ensure passenger safety amid ongoing monitoring of the volcanic activity.

Etna's current eruptive phase began on June 26, characterized by lava flows that prompted authorities to raise vigilance levels in the region. According to INGV, the lava flows observed at the end of June ceased entirely by July 4. However, the sudden emission of volcanic ash on Sunday disrupted travel plans for thousands of passengers who had been expecting smooth operations at Catania Airport.

In addition to the main eruption, a secondary, smaller lava flow was detected between July 2 and 3. This flow advanced slightly more than 100 meters before coming to a halt. Such intermittent activity underscores the dynamic nature of Etna's eruptions, where periods of relative calm can be followed by unexpected surges in volcanic output.

The impact of these eruptions extends beyond immediate logistical challenges. Local communities near the volcano often face evacuations and environmental concerns related to ash fall. Authorities have established monitoring systems to track changes in volcanic behavior and provide timely warnings to residents and visitors alike. These measures are crucial given Etna's proximity to populated areas and its history of frequent eruptions.

Scientists continue to analyze data collected from seismic sensors and satellite imagery to better understand the mechanisms driving Etna's current activity. Their findings will contribute to improved predictive models, helping to refine early warning systems and enhance preparedness strategies for future eruptions. As research progresses, the hope remains that such knowledge will lead to more effective mitigation efforts, reducing potential hazards associated with volcanic activity in the region.