The Foreign Office has issued a fresh warning for Brits planning to travel to Italy, as well as those currently in the country. In their most recent advice, updated on July 8 this year, government officials have warned of potential flight delays due to issues with airspace that could arise from volcanic eruptions.
Holidaymakers are being alerted to the fact that there are several active volcanoes in southern Italy at present. As a result, national emergency plans have been updated for Vesuvius and the Phlegraean fields. According to the Foreign Office, this is an area that remains active and experienced tremors in 2024.
The travel advice, which also applies to Vatican City, warns: “Due to volcanic activity, local authorities have increased the alert levels for both Etna and Stromboli in the south of Italy. In the event of a volcanic eruption, follow the advice of local authorities.”
It further advises: “Airspace can be affected during eruptions. If you are travelling to or from Catania, during this period of heightened activity, check with your travel provider or with Catania airport.”
Discussing the risks involved, Dipartimento della Protezione Civile explains: “Volcanoes having erupted over the last few years are defined as active. These are Etna and Stromboli that frequently erupt and represent a reduced hazard at short term due to their open conduit activity.
“Volcanic activity in Italy is also concentrated in the underwater areas of the Tyrrhenian Sea and Canale di Sicilia. Several submarine volcanoes are still active, others, now extinct, represent true and proper submarine mountains. Apart from the better known Marsili, Vavilov and Magnaghi volcanoes, the submarine Palinuro, Glauco, Eolo, Sisifo, Enarete volcanoes as well as the volcanic areas in the Canale di Sicilia should also be mentioned.”
Before taking off, it’s essential to check with your airline or travel company and keep an eye on updates from the Foreign Office website to ensure everything is in order and that your destination is safe.
In times of emergency, misinformation can spread rapidly, which can obstruct rescue operations. It’s vital to follow the guidance issued by civil protection authorities via radio, TV, newspapers, online platforms, and any dedicated helplines provided for the crisis.