You, Me and Sicily-MOUNT ETNA UPDATE AUGUST 14

You, Me and Sicily MOUNT ETNA UPDATE AUGUST 14 Tomorrow is Ferragosto, Italy’s biggest summer holiday, and Mamma Etna is still putting on quite a show. For several straight days, Etna has been erupting, with active vents and lava flowing into two valleys, safely away from residential areas. The spectacular display has attracted tourists and, especially, young Sicilians eager to get closer to the action. But the sheer numbers and crowds were working officials so authorities are now tightening restrictions. Today, the mayor of Milo issued an ordinance limiting access to the area where the lava is flowing. The closest permitted access is about 4 kilometers away and reaching the area shown in these photos is quite a hike. These images were taken over the past several days by professional guides and photographers who know the volcano and how to approach it safely. While intense activity like this is part of life with one of Europe’s most active volcanoes, eight consecutive days of this level of activity is NOT unusual. According to volcanologist Boris Behncke, there have been longer and more intense explosions than this one I. The past few decades. The amount of ash is considerable but he says gas emissions are not dangerous. The ash clouds, however, are causing the biggest disruption particularly for air travel. Catania Airport remains closed because of the ash, creating cancellations, diversions and major disruption during one of Sicily’s busiest travel periods. Palermo airport is taking on the brunt of the diversions and cancellations. The economic impact is being felt across hotels, restaurants, tour operators, transportation and other tourism businesses. But here’s the important part: the lava is flowing safely away from inhabited areas. If you're coming to Sicily, don’t cancel your trip because of Etna. Check your flight status with your airline and be prepared for possible delays or changes. Etna has been doing this for thousands of years and eventually, as always, Mamma Etna will quiet down again. Until then, you can count on me for updates from Sicily. Love, Eszter #MountEtna #Etna #Sicily #Catania