Explosive eruption at Etna volcano ejects ash up to 11 600 m (38 000 feet) a.s.l., Italy

Volcanic ash from Etna in Italy was observed at 11 600 m (38 000 feet) above sea level at 19:55 UTC on December 27, 2025. The advisory was issued by the Toulouse VAAC at 19:58 UTC.

The explosive activity at Etna lasted for approximately 30 minutes and resulted in ash clouds reaching flight level 380, equivalent to 11 600 m (38 000 feet). Ash movement was towards the northeast at a speed of 46 km/h (29 mph). The current Aviation Color Code is Red. Observations were made using INGV webcams and satellite imagery. Forecasts indicated the potential for lower-level ash clouds at 3 700 m (12 000 feet) above sea level for several hours after the eruption, but no significant residual ash contamination was identified.

Etna is not featured in the most recent Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for the week ending December 2, 2025. For the latest information about activity at the volcano, refer to official monitoring sources.

Etna is a large stratovolcano located on the east coast of Sicily, Italy. It is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, with a history of frequent explosive eruptions and lava flows. Hazards include ashfall, pyroclastic flows, lava flows, and volcanic gas emissions. The city of Catania (approximately 30 km (19 miles) south) and other surrounding communities are at risk from its eruptions.