On the afternoon of 13 August 2023, the measuring instruments of the INGV (Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology in Catania) register the first signs of a new eruption of Mount Etna. Shortly afterwards, this begins with Strombolian activity.
Strombolian activity is typical of the Stromboli volcano. It is characterised by the emission of lava in the form of drops, shreds and lava bombs, which are ejected intermittently from the channel. Unlike on Stromboli, the strombolian activity on Mount Etna is only one of the countless phases of a larger eruptive event. It is no coincidence that Etna is a volcano with extremely complex and varied activity.
News of another eruption of Mount Etna spreads like wildfire. Photographers, scientists and onlookers rush towards Mount Etna. You too can check out the eruption on our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cv6zu53IB_9/?igshid=MTc4MmM1YmI2Ng==
On the southern flank of the south-east crater, the lava begins to overflow. The atmosphere changes: the strombolian activity becomes more constant, but there is no sign of the longed-for lava fountains. This continues throughout the night. Finally, a few hours before dawn, the lava fountains suddenly erupt. The show begins!
The eruption produces another lava flow between Monte Frumento Supino and the craters of the 2002 eruption. It develops only slightly and overlays the earlier lava flows. There is no lava flow in the Valle del Bove.
Also of note is a new fissure on the southwestern flank of the Southeast Crater, which is producing a modest lava flow at an elevation of 2700 metres.
Three days later, the signs of eruptive activity have not yet completely disappeared. We are curious to see how it continues.
Now we just have to wait for the signs of the next eruption. Let’s pack our rucksacks and equipment and set off to experience the wonders of one of the world’s most active volcanoes.
Do you want to experience this force of nature up close?
Get in touch with us and we will inform you about the current situation on Mount Etna and which tours are possible at the moment: our contact information