Etna has been putting on a rare volcanic show for seven days: tourists are flocking to the trails, ash is closing the airport.

Known as 'His Majesty', Mount Etna continues to attract a large number of visitors following an unusual eruption that has already lasted seven days. Salvo Gambino, the director of the Etna Observatory, emphasizes that, although similar phenomena have occurred in the past, the duration of the current eruption is remarkable. The volcanic activity is simultaneously affecting several sectors, including the Voragine crater, where lava fountains and ash emissions are recorded.

Although the lava flows do not pose a danger to inhabited areas, the ash cloud is affecting the nearby airport. The influx of visitors has led to chaos on the roads and trails in the area, comparing to the busiest resorts. Cristian Alessi, a naturalist guide, warns of the dangers, mentioning that many people are getting too close to unstable areas. The Alpine Rescue Service has issued precautionary recommendations in the context of the current eruption.