Explosive eruption at Etna volcano sends ash up to 11 000 m (36 100 feet) a.s.l., Italy

Volcanic ash from Etna in Italy was observed at an altitude of 11 000 m (36 100 feet) above sea level at 12:00 UTC on December 27, 2025. The advisory, issued by VAAC Toulouse at 12:01 UTC, reported very intense and short explosive volcanic activity.

The observed ash cloud reached up to flight level 360, approximately 11 000 m (36 100 feet). The cloud was moving westward at 19 km/h (12 mph) and was clearly identifiable on satellite imagery. The Aviation Color Code is Red. Forecasts indicated the ash cloud could extend up to 9 100 m (30 000 feet) a.s.l. in the next six hours but no forecasts were provided beyond this timeframe. The advisory specifically notes that QVA charts are usable only up to 6 hours due to potential overestimation beyond that period.

The most recent Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report does not cover this specific event but notes continuous eruptive activity at Etna is common. Etna is among the most active volcanoes in the world, with frequent explosive and effusive eruptions producing persistent ash plumes, lava flows, and occasional pyroclastic flows that may impact air traffic and local settlements including Catania and surrounding communities.

Mount Etna is a stratovolcano located on the east coast of Sicily near the city of Catania. Known hazards include ashfall, lava flows, pyroclastic flows, and volcanic gas emissions. Due to its proximity to densely populated areas, eruptions may pose risks to cities such as Catania and towns on the volcano’s slopes. Major eruptions can disrupt aviation and cause ashfall over substantial distances from the crater.