A surreal scene has emerged from the slopes of Mount Etna this week as a lone skier was filmed descending the volcano’s side, framed by massive plumes of ash from a new eruptive phase that began on December 26, 2025.
Boxing Day Eruption Confirmed
Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) confirmed that Europe’s most active volcano entered a violent new stage on Boxing Day. The activity intensified quickly, with the INGV reporting “strong explosions” that sent jets of lava screaming more than 1,000ft (300 meters) into the sky.
The eruption has not been limited to the summit; rock fragments were ejected several kilometers into the atmosphere, while a lava flow has already carved a 2km path eastward into the Valle del Bove.
Ash Fall Impacts Piano Provenzana and Taormina
While the skier captured in the viral footage appeared calm, the environmental impact of the eruption is being felt across the region. Driven by high-altitude winds, a massive ash cloud moved north-eastward, resulting in:
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Piano Provenzana: The Sicilian ski resort was blanketed in volcanic ash, creating a stark contrast against the winter snow.
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Taormina: The historic tourist hub reported significant ash fall throughout the town.
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Airport Status: A yellow alert remains in place for Catania-Fontanarossa Airport. While no major shutdowns have occurred, officials are warning of potential flight delays as they monitor the ash density.
Activity at the Craters
After a short lull in activity late on the 26th, the INGV reported that the eruption resumed with renewed vigor on December 27. Monitoring equipment currently shows significant activity at both the Bocca Nuova and the northeast craters.
Local authorities emphasize that the yellow alert level ensures constant information sharing, though the volcano’s unpredictable nature during this 2025 holiday season has kept the region on high alert.
