Mount Etna eruption prompts new restrictions on tours

Catania authorities have suspended or restricted guided excursions to Mount Etna after recent eruptions, prompting local guides to strike; Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology says lava fronts are cooling and not advancing.

Authorities in Catania have suspended or tightened excursions to Mount Etna following a series of eruptions that began on Christmas Eve. Local guides protested the measures and held a demonstration at the lava flow gate. The guides launched a strike, noting the restrictions limit their professional role. Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology reported the eruption is ongoing but said lava fronts are cooling and not advancing. Key facts: - Authorities in Catania have suspended or restricted guided excursions to view Mount Etna's lava flows. - Dozens of local guides demonstrated and have begun a strike in response to the new measures. - Italy's National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology confirmed the eruption is ongoing but reported that lava fronts are cooling and not advancing. - Volcanologists and local officials reported the recent lava flow is not threatening nearby residential areas. Summary: The new restrictions have reduced close-up visitor access and prompted a strike by local guides, affecting scheduled excursions. Undetermined at this time.