Tourists run for their lives as Mount Etna erupts and sends lava pouring towards them (videos)

Europe’s biggest active volcano has erupted, spewing hot ash several kilometres into the air.   

A code red alert was issued after Mount Etna exploded earlier today, June 2, warning it could disrupt flights. 

The eruption sent a pyroclastic flow – the same mix of hot rock, ash and gas that destroyed Pompeii – hurtling down the side of the mountain. 

Footage shows dozens of tourists running for their lives, as huge clouds of smoke erupts behind them.   

The Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre in Toulouse warned the aviation industry that an ash cloud, mainly made up of water and sulphur dioxide, was drifting south west.   

It was so big that the nearby town of Catania was plunged into almost darkness. 

A live stream still shows a towering cloud above the volcano, though the main eruption has subsided. 
 

According to Giornale di Sicilia, strong tremors continue to be felt in the area and the flow of hot material was remain confined to one area, the Leone Valley.   

There is also a small lava overflow at the southern edge of the crater with some lava flowing towards the Bove Valley.   

Etna has been incredibly active throughout the first half of 2025, with lava bombs and fountains bursting out.   

Last month, glowing lava burst out and poured down the mountain, with dramatic images showing the fiery flow. 

Watch a video of today’s eruption below 

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