Volcanic Eruptions – Mount Etna

PRELIMS BITS

Context:

• Mount Etna in Italy erupted, releasing streams of lava that drew thousands of tourists but also raised safety concerns.
• Mount Dukono in Indonesia erupted, sending a 2,000-meter ash plume into the sky, triggering aviation warnings and public safety alerts.

Mount Etna (Italy)

• Location: Sicily, Italy
• Type: Stratovolcano — Europe’s tallest and most active volcano (~3,350 meters).
• Eruption Highlights:
  • The recent eruption is centered around the Bocca Nuova crater (“new mouth”).
  • Lava flows are interacting with snow, creating risks of rock explosions and increasing hazards in the surrounding areas.

Mount Dukono (Indonesia)

• Location: Halmahera Island, North Maluku, Indonesia
• Type: Active stratovolcano (1,087 meters).
• Eruption Highlights:
  • Known for persistent activity, Mount Dukono frequently emits ash clouds.
  • The latest eruption produced a 2,000-meter-high ash column, posing significant risks to air traffic.
  • An orange-level aviation warning (VONA) has been issued due to the ash plume.

Impacts and Safety Measures:

• Aviation Hazards:
  • Flights are now restricted within a 5 km radius around Mount Dukono to avoid ash interference.
• Public Safety:
  • Authorities have issued advisories urging residents to stay at least 4 km away from the Malupang Warirang crater due to the ongoing eruption risks.