Small pyroclastic flows occured during eruption in November 2006. Lavaflows, lava fontains and debris avalanches were observed, too. A fracture was opening during this spectacular eruption from SE-Crater-Cone. Pyroclastic flows are relatively rare on Etna, however, were observed more frequent in recent years, than in previous centurys. They arise either when new lava flows weld by the volcano flank, or by the collapse of ash clouds during paroxysm.
Together with my friend Chris from VEI I camped 3 days on the volcano. On the last morning, the eruptive fissure opened. Our campsite was above the Hornitos and was threatened by the new lava. So we had to flee quickly. A little bit later the small pyroclastic flows were generated. They flowed through a point where we were 15 minutes previously stood.
Mount Etna is Europe's most powerful volcano. Reaching a height of 3352 meters, it dominates visible from Sicily's east coast.
Learn more about pyroclastic flows on my Website: www.vulkane.net/english/volcan...
11 май 2010
