Twelve days after the start of the effusive eruption on Mount Etna, it seems that everything is about to end. The phenomenon started from a fracture at the base of the Bocca Nuova crater on February 8, has produced – in almost two weeks – a long lava flow that has descended on the western side, reaching 1800 meters above sea level in a few days. To this, were also added several paroxysmal episodes from the South East crater, with lava fountains of small dimensions and copious emissions of fine ash.
The lava flow has divided into several branches and in some places it has piled up, reaching and cutting the Altomontana track and penetrating into the woods for a few meters. On February 20, however, the volcanic tremor has recorded a sudden drop and also the lava emission appears very reduced, which leads to the deduction that the eruption is in the closing phase.
But is it really like this?
In the past, effusive eruptions like this one have often been the prelude to something more lasting and different. As if the volcano, with these events, inaugurated “new” chapters in its history. We saw it in the 1980s, then in the period 1991-1993 and again in 2002. After a very long paroxysmal phase, and a not indifferent pause, could Etna be preparing something else? A new period of effusive eruptions? A new way of producing paroxysms? Certainly the “sudden end” of the most touristic eruption of the last ten years leaves us with a few questions … as if a dear friend or a lover has left us suddenly and without a plausible explanation. The sixth sense tells us that “it’s not over yet”.
We are waiting for developments or “revolutions”, therefore, and in the meantime we take this opportunity to make a heartfelt appeal: DEAR TOURISTS ….. approach the volcano with due respect and above all with the appropriate guides. Avoid going just to steal sensational selfies, perhaps dressed in miniskirts and tank tops. Have the attitude of someone who approaches a god, because whether you like it or not, whether you believe it or not, Etna is a divinity that requires awareness and common sense. The Greeks teach … you don’t joke with gods! (PHOTOS BY GIOVINSKY AETNENSIS)