Tourists in Italy have been ignoring vital instructions from the local authorities following a major volcanic eruption earlier this month.
Mount Etna is an active stratovolcano on the east coast of Italy’s stunning island of Sicily. It first erupted on February 8.
Lava emerged from the volcano and descended along the southwest flank of the volcano, reaching an altitude of around 1,950 metres above sea level. Rather than staying away, tourists have been climbing the mountain to witness the sight up close.
Restrictions have been put in place, and tourists must stay at a minimum distance of 500 metres away from the lava flow, which must be accompanied by guides.
However, those rules are not being followed, and according to mountain police, known as Soccorso Alpino, people are climbing up too close to see the eruption that has been taking place for days.
Not only that, but people have continued to ski on the mountain slopes.
With the number of people on the mountain, it has become difficult for authorities to monitor the situation, and therefore, guards are calling for the public to take responsibility.
In addition to the hot molten lava being extremely dangerous, the winter conditions on the mountain are also an issue. Appropriate clothing is necessary to stay safe at Mount Etna, but that is another big issue people have not been considering.
« We have already made some rescues, mainly because people don’t have the proper clothing », shared marshal Paolo Bernardini of the Nicolosi mountain rescue team.
« We find tourists with hypothermia », he continued. Despite the bans issued by the mayors of the Catania area, pictures show crowds of people gathered to witness what had been taking place.
The photographs also show the ash, flaming rocks and lava.
The flow emerged from a fissure on the southern rim of the Bocca Nuova crater. Fortunately, the lava flow did not pose an immediate threat to inhabited areas.
However, those who are in the area and plan to view the lava flow should adhere to the rules of the local authorities that have been put in place the safety of those around.
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