Mount Etna eruption: Potential health risks locals are exposed to

Mount Etna is showing her natural might!

As Europe's most active volcano erupted dramatically on June 2, sending massive plumes of ash and lava into the sky, Italy is currently facing significant turmoil among both locals and tourists due to the violent eruption. The eruption of Mount Etna released massive clouds of ash into the atmosphere and necessitated the evacuation of affected areas. The sudden volcanic activity has disrupted daily lives around the area, leading to emergency evacuations because of the hazardous conditions created by the thick ash fallout.


What’s happening?

Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano, erupted early on Monday, June 2, producing large plumes of smoke and prompting tourists to flee for their lives. Mount Etna has a distinct conical shape and reaches a height of nearly 3,400 meters due to centuries of continuous lava flows and explosive eruptions.

The eruption began around 4 a.m. local time, with Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology reporting increasingly intense strombolian explosions.

JUST IN - Insane close-up video of Mount Etna erupting

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Etna, situated on Sicily’s east coast near Catania and Taormina, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world's most active stratovolcanoes, with annual eruptions.


While the immediate threat to life was minimal, the eruption poses significant health risks to nearby residents. Some of them are:


Respiratory hazards from volcanic ash:

Volcanic ash is composed of fine particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to respiratory issues . Inhalation of ash can cause coughing, throat irritation, and exacerbate chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. A retrospective study from the 2002 eruption of Mount Etna found a significant increase in emergency department visits for acute respiratory diseases during periods of intense ash fall.


Cardiovascular strain

Exposure to volcanic ash can also strain the cardiovascular system. Fine particulate matter can enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation and increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, particularly in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. The same 2002 study observed a rise in cardiovascular-related emergency visits during the eruption period.


Ocular and dermatological effects

Ash particles can irritate the eyes, leading to conditions like conjunctivitis and corneal abrasions. Direct contact with ash can also cause skin irritation, especially if the ash is acidic. Residents are advised to wear protective eyewear and clothing when venturing outdoors during ashfall.


Long-term health concerns

Long-term exposure to volcanic ash and gases has been linked to increased cancer risks. A study highlighted by Scientific American suggests that residents near Mount Etna may face an elevated risk of thyroid cancer due to contaminants like magnesium, boron, iron, and vanadium found in the local water supply, which are leached from volcanic rocks.


Vulnerable populations

Certain groups are more susceptible to the health effects of volcanic activity. Children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions such as respiratory or heart diseases are at higher risk. It's crucial for these populations to minimize exposure and seek medical advice if symptoms arise.


Mitigation measures

Local authorities have issued advisories urging residents to stay indoors during ashfall, keep windows and doors closed, and wear masks when going outside. Regular cleaning of ash from roofs and streets is essential to prevent accumulation and potential structural damage.


While Mount Etna's recent eruption has not caused any immediate harm to residents, the associated health risks are quite significant. Ongoing monitoring and public health measures are extremely important to protect the local population from the adverse effects of the ongoing volcanic activity.