Ash plume from Etna volcano reaches 4 900 m (16 000 feet) a.s.l., Italy

Volcanic ash from Etna in Italy was observed at 4 900 m (16 000 feet) above sea level at 11:00 UTC on December 26, 2025. The advisory was issued by Toulouse VAAC at 10:50 UTC.

Ash associated with Strombolian activity was detected up to 4 900 m (16 000 feet) moving to the northeast at approximately 28 km/h (17 mph). Satellite imagery, webcam, and reports confirmed the observations. The current Aviation Color Code is Orange. Due to the low intensity, quantitative ash models did not show significant contamination, and light ash fallout was reported in the northeast sector of Etna. No additional ash cloud forecast was provided beyond 6 hours.

Etna is not listed in the most recent Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for the period covering late November to early December 2025.

Etna is a large stratovolcano located on the east coast of Sicily, Italy. It is characterized by persistent activity that includes explosive eruptions, lava flows, and ashfall. Known hazards are ashfall affecting nearby communities, occasional pyroclastic flows, and lava flows threatening infrastructure. The cities of Catania and smaller towns on the volcano’s flanks are within areas of potential impact from Etna’s eruptions.