What is a paroxysm and when to expect it?

What is a paroxysm and when to expect it?

A paroxysm is a volcanic explosion of short, but intense, duration. This explosion is characterized by lava, gas and ash emissions within minutes or hours. Often, before a paroxysm happens, volcanic tremor increases. Some activity is also often visible, such as gas puffs or small Strombolian eruptions. Important to note is that Etna has one of the most complex and spectacular eruptive cycles in the world!

How and when to expect a paroxysm?

The activity and tremor of Etna volcano are monitored by INGV, the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology. INGV uses several advanced instruments such as seismometers and thermal imaging cameras. On our Lava & Limitations page you can see Etna’s tremor LIVE. Warning signs are:

• The increase in volcanic tremor
• Intensified gas emissions
• Changes in crust morphology

Of course, it is impossible to predict a paroxysm. But experts, with data from INGV, are able to estimate the most likely periods.

The magic of witnessing a paroxysm

Experiencing a paroxysm firsthand is a unique experience. The first time you can’t believe your eyes. A “mountain” that suddenly spits fire. This is not a fountain, but lava shot several kilometers into the air. This is accompanied by much “smoke” (gas) and sometimes a “rain” of lava rocks, called lapilli. In addition, it is possible to hear the mountain “rumbling and rumbling.” It is most important NEVER to be under the smoke of the eruption. You can compare a shower of lava stones to an extreme hailstorm. Only in this case it is not hail, but real (sharp)lava stones of different caliber, which sometimes can also be described as lava rocks, depending on the paroxysm. When Etna has a period of increased likelihood of a paroxysm, there are often specific restrictions on approaching active areas. Therefore, our advice is to always rely on an official volcano guide. A volcanological guide is always in live contact with INGV and the warning and security systems. This means that they are informed immediately if there are changes in the volcano’s vibrations and/or activity. In addition, they are trained to get you to safety as quickly as possible in such a situation. Because remember… Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the World!

What hiking can you do during a paroxysm?

Etna volcano has four active summit craters. From Etna South you can see only the southernmost summit crater. From Etna North you can see the southeastern summit crater and the northeastern summit crater. Of the other two summit craters, from Etna North you can only see the top of Voragine crater. So, depending on which summit crater shows more activity or where there is lava flow, you can decide which side of the volcano to hike from to see the lava. The volcano’s paroxysmal activity is best seen at sunset and after sunset. This is because during the day the lava is so hot that you see more steam rather than color. This means that the sunset hike is the best choice to go to see the red lava when there are these forms of activity. Do you want to discover Etna during its volcanic activity? Book an Etna excursion with us and experience the thrill of observing one of the world’s most powerful natural phenomena up close!