CATANIA, SICILY – Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, erupted violently on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at approximately 07:25 UTC, sending significant ash plumes high into the atmosphere over eastern Sicily. The eruption has prompted the Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC) Toulouse to issue advisories for air traffic. While current reports indicate the main eruptive phase has stopped, weak ash emissions persist.
The National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) reported the eruption originated from the volcano’s summit craters. Ash emissions were observed rising to an altitude of approximately 3,700 meters (12,000 feet). Although the primary eruption has ceased, mild ash emissions continue, primarily confined to the summit area and dispersing to the southeast. The INGV is closely monitoring the situation, with current seismic activity remaining within average ranges.
This event follows a period of increased activity at Etna’s summit craters. On June 15, 2026, near-continuous mild ash emissions were reported from the Voragine summit crater, indicating a potential for heightened activity. Just days prior, on June 13, the Voragine crater was noted to have awakened with booming sounds and ash emissions, suggesting a change in the volcano’s behavior.
Mount Etna’s history is marked by frequent and significant eruptions. In January 2026, a flank eruption began on Etna’s eastern slope, producing ash that threatened airspace and caused lava flows. The volcano is known for its persistent activity, with numerous eruptions recorded annually. Notable historical eruptions include the devastating 1669 event that destroyed villages and reached the city of Catania, and the 2002-2003 eruption which produced a massive ash column visible from space.
The current ash emissions, though mild, have prompted aviation advisories due to potential impacts on air travel. Catania Airport, located in the vicinity of Mount Etna, may experience disruptions or delays. While direct risk to populated areas from this specific event appears low, authorities are maintaining a heightened state of vigilance. The INGV continues to monitor seismic activity, ground deformation, and gas emissions to assess future risks.
Officials from the Dipartimento della Protezione Civile, in collaboration with the INGV, are managing the response. The alert level for Etna is currently monitored, with mechanisms in place to quickly escalate responses if necessary. The public is advised to stay informed through official channels and to exercise caution in areas downwind of the volcano. For emergency information or to report ashfall, residents and travelers can contact local Civil Protection authorities or monitor official INGV and Dipartimento della Protezione Civile updates.
The situation remains dynamic, and further updates will be provided as volcanic activity evolves. The INGV is expected to release its next comprehensive bulletin within 24 hours.
This is a developing story.
Meta Description: Breaking: Mount Etna erupts, spewing ash plumes over Sicily on June 17, 2026. Aviation advisories issued. Live updates on volcanic activity.
