On the east coast of Sicily, within the territory of the metropolitan city of Catania, Italy, the natural phenomenon has attracted numerous tourists and hikers, but it has also led Italian authorities to significantly reinforce security measures. Among the new imposed rules are limitations on group sizes, which cannot exceed ten people, a ban on excursions after dark, and the establishment of a 200-meter exclusion zone around the lava flows.
Authorities justify these decisions due to the risks posed by volcanic activity, as well as the presence of gases and potential sudden changes in the volcano's behavior. However, these restrictions have caused discontent among professional vulcanologist guides on Etna, who have initiated protests to express their opposition. The guides believe that the measures are excessive, difficult to implement on the ground, and detrimental to their work, especially during a peak tourist season.
Etna, which welcomes around 1.5 million visitors annually, has once again become the center of the debate between safety and tourism. As the eruption continues, guides are calling for a dialogue with authorities to find a balance that ensures visitor safety without hindering their professional activities.