Overview of Mount Etna

Mount Etna, located on the island of Sicily in Italy at coordinates 37.75°N / 14.99°E, is an iconic active stratovolcano currently standing at 3,369 meters (11,053 feet). This towering giant is subject to frequent changes in elevation due to ongoing eruptive activity and the collapse of its crater rims.

Current Eruptive Activity

Current Status: Erupting (4 out of 5) – Mount Etna is presently experiencing significant eruptive activity. Known for its persistent activity, Etna has a rich history of eruptions, both from its summit and its flanks.

Historical Eruptions

Mount Etna holds records of numerous historic eruptions. Notable among them are the large Plinian outbursts of 122 BC, which contributed to the formation of the “Cratere del Piano.” In 1669 AD, a devastating flank eruption obliterated 15 villages and part of the city of Catania. Another spectacular event occurred in 1787, featuring a subplinian eruption with lava fountains shooting up to 3000 meters high.

Eruptions Since 1950

Since 1950, Mount Etna has had numerous eruptions, both from its summit and flanks: 1950 (s), 1950-51(f), 1955 (s), 1956 (s, f), 1957 (s), 1960 (s), 1961 (s), 1964 (f, s), 1966-1971(s), 1968 (f), 1971(f), 1972-1973 (s), 1974 (f), 1974-1975 (s), 1975-1977 (f), 1977-1978 (s), 1978 (f), 1979(s, f), 1980 (s), 1981 (s, f), 1982-1983 (s), 1983(f), 1984(s), 1985(s, f), 1986(s, f), 1987(s), 1988(s), 1989(s, f), 1990 (s), 1991-93(f), 1995(s), 1996(s), 1997 (s), 1998 (s), 1999 (s), 2000 (s), 2001(s, f), 2002(s, f), 2004-2005 (f), 2006 (s), 2007 (s), 2008-2009 (f), 2010(s), 2011-2013(s), 2014-18, 2018(f), 2019-ongoing (s).

Eruption Style

Mount Etna is known for its effusive eruptions, characterized by lava flows, along with mildly explosive strombolian activities. The volcano sees eruptions from both its summit and its flanks, often in clusters ranging from a few to tens of years, making it a geologically fascinating and active site.