Italian authorities have raised the alert level at Mount Etna from green to yellow after an increase in volcanic activity, citing stronger seismic movements and accelerating lava flows on the volcano’s slopes.

Italy’s Civil Protection Department said the decision was taken after monitoring data showed a rise in volcanic tremors and increased lava effusion on the eastern flank of the volcano.

Etna, located on the island of Sicily, is Europe’s largest and most active volcano.

The National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) reported that lava flows have been observed starting at around 3,000 metres in elevation, with activity intensifying in recent days.

Scientists said internal changes within the volcano have been detected, noting that such activity can sometimes precede more powerful eruptions, although no major eruption has been confirmed at this stage.

Italian authorities said monitoring systems have been reinforced and surveillance operations intensified as a precautionary measure.

No evacuation orders have been issued so far, but officials stressed that the situation could evolve depending on future volcanic activity.

The yellow alert level indicates increased risk but no immediate threat to the public. (ILKHA)