Mount Etna, the most powerful volcano on Sicily, has recently awoken from its quiet slumber, exhibiting significant seismic activity and minor ash emissions. Over the past few weeks, the iconic volcano has seen 171 earthquakes, including one recorded at magnitude 2.7, as reported by the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV). The tremors prompted scientists to update the Shakemap, identifying two main clusters of seismic events occurring at different depths near the southern town of Ragalna.
Experts suggest these earthquakes may be of volcanic-tectonic origin, dictated by rising magma below the surface. The pressure build-up from the magma likely caused the recent ash emissions emanated from the New Southeast Crater. The activity has increased the focus on Mount Etna, with many predicting it is merely weeks before the magma reaches the shallow reservoir underneath the crater, potentially leading to new eruptions.
Meanwhile, across the globe, Peru's Ubinas Volcano experiences its own set of challenges. On January 25, 2025, heavy rains triggered substantial lahars, saturizing previously deposited volcanic ash and turning it to mud as it cascaded down the volcano's southeastern flank. This mudflow, which emerged from Volcanmayo Gorge, severely disrupted traffic between the towns of Ubinas and Tonohaya, prompting authorities to mobilize heavy machinery to clear the affected roadway.
The Regional Emergency Operations Center of Moquegua monitored the situation closely, providing real-time updates to keep local residents informed about the risks associated with lahars. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Still, local officials urged the communities near the volcano to remain wary of the dangers associated with lahars, which can carry not only mud but also heavy rocks, posing significant risks to public safety.
While the Ubinas Volcano remains active, emitting small ash plumes daily, its overall activity has seen reductions compared to the previous month; seismicity dropped from over 100 daily volcanic tremors to fewer than 50. The volcano has had 28 eruptive phases over the last 500 years, demonstrating its volatility yet retaining its current status at Alarm Level Yellow due to recent activity. Experts are unsure whether this lull indicates diminished danger or simply the calm before the storm.
Both volcanic sites outline the inherent risks associated with living near active volcanoes. The case of Mount Etna's seismic activity highlights the need for constant vigilance to anticipate possible eruptions, with experts stressing the importance of monitoring data. Whether it is minor ash emissions or significant seismic events, the potential for volcanic eruptions requires precautions for surrounding communities.
Conversely, the Ubinas Volcano's recent lahar incidents act as stark reminders of the power of natural phenomena. The authorities' response to the lahars showcases their commitment to citizen safety. While the rains caused havoc, it is also evident how rapidly conditions can change and require immediate responses from local agencies.
The dramatically differing activity levels between Mount Etna and Ubinas serve to encapsulate the unpredictability of volcanic eruptions, reminding us of both the dangers and the awe these geological forces can exert on their surroundings.