Multitudes of hikers making a beeline for Mount Etna's volcanic eruption create disarray, hindering emergency responses, and potentially exposing themselves to perilous situations
Mount Etna, one of Europe's most active volcanoes, has been erupting sporadically since February 11, attracting thousands of hikers from around the globe. However, the thrill of witnessing the volcano's lava spurts and bright night-time illumination comes with a significant dose of caution.
Recent incidents, such as a 48-year-old man fracturing his foot and eight people getting lost, highlight the need for strict adherence to safety rules. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, here are the key safety guidelines and precautions for hiking Mount Etna during an active eruption.
- Keep a safe distance: Visitors are now banned from approaching within 50 meters of active lava flows, especially in upper areas around 2,300 meters altitude, to avoid life-threatening hazards like lava, explosions, and toxic gases.
- Join guided tours only: Licensed mountain guides and volcanologists accompany visitors for real-time alerts and safe route selection. Helmet and protective gear are mandatory on these guided excursions.
- Follow local emergency decrees: Comply with restrictions issued by local authorities such as Mayor Antonio Bonanno of Biancavilla, who enforce emergency measures during eruptions.
- Be aware of terrain risks: Lava flows can be on steep, inaccessible slopes and may cross or obliterate trails. Only experienced hikers should consider specialized routes, and even then with extreme caution.
- Monitor ongoing volcanic activity: The National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) and Italy’s Civil Protection update daily assessments of eruption status, trail safety, gas emissions, and ground temperature. Travelers should rely on official sources and alerts.
- Do not attempt to approach active vents: Explosions can occur suddenly, and lava spattering (throwing debris) can be dangerous even if appearing weak.
- Stay on authorized paths: Straying from marked trails increases the risk of injury or getting lost, especially in dynamic volcanic terrain.
- Prepare appropriate safety gear: Helmets, sturdy boots, and protective clothing are required, as falling rocks, rough terrain, and volcanic material hazards are common.
- Avoid challenging the volcano: Authorities emphasize admiring from a safe distance rather than engaging in risky behavior for photos or thrills.
In summary, hiking Mount Etna during an active eruption is possible but requires strict adherence to safety rules, reliance on professional guides, and continuous monitoring of volcanic conditions. Unauthorized or careless behavior near lava flows is banned and dangerous due to explosive activity and toxic gases.
For those planning to visit, it's important to check the real-time volcano data on the INGV's website for updates and consider investing in high-quality, durable hiking gear such as the Mescalito TRK Pro boots from Scarpa, which are tough, stable, and crampon-compatible for snowy sections.
