Explosive eruption at Etna volcano sends ash 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 16:30 UTC on December 27, 2025. The advisory was issued by Toulouse VAAC at 16:44 UTC.

Ash cloud observations indicate that the explosive activity produced an ash cloud reaching flight level 380, approximately 11 600 m (38 000 feet). The main cloud was seen moving west at approximately 19 km/h (12 mph). The current Aviation Color Code is Red. The explosive activity lasted half an hour with very fast ash emission, and quantitative volcanic ash forecasts (QVA) were not provided due to the short duration and limited ash contamination area.

Etna is not mentioned in the latest Smithsonian/USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for the most recent week. For the latest information about activity at the volcano, refer to updates from the Global Volcanism Program and local authorities.

Etna is a large stratovolcano located on the island of Sicily, Italy. It is Europe’s most active volcano, with frequent explosive eruptions and lava flows. Hazards include ashfall, lava flows, and pyroclastic flows, which can affect nearby cities such as Catania and towns on its flanks. The volcano poses a risk to local populations, agriculture, and air traffic during major explosive events.