Surge of Tourists Ignoring Volcano Warnings at Mount Etna Presents Danger
Thousands of tourists have flocked to Mount Etna, Sicily's active volcano, despite warnings from local officials regarding safety risks. The influx began on February 11, coinciding with an increase in volcanic activity, leading to significant lava flows. Officials, including Salvo Cocina of Sicily’s civil protection agency, have urged people to stay at least 500 meters away from the lava, a directive that has largely gone unheeded, placing both visitors and emergency responders at risk.
The conditions on the volcano have proven hazardous, with unprepared tourists hiking and skiing in dangerous terrain near molten lava. Cocina described the situation as "wild" and "extremely dangerous," mentioning incidents where rescue teams had to assist individuals suffering from panic attacks or sustaining injuries due to falls in the snowy landscape. Recent rescues included a 48-year-old man with a broken foot and the recovery of eight lost individuals later in the week, reinforcing the considerable dangers associated with reckless behavior in such a volatile environment.
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