Mount Etna and Volcanic Vortex Rings (VVRs)

Mount Etna has been observed producing Volcanic Vortex Rings (VVRs).

About Mount Etna:

• Mount Etna is not only an active volcano but also the highest peak in Italy south of the Alps and the largest volcano in Europe.
• It is located in a dynamic tectonic zone within the Mediterranean Sea area, forming part of the extensive Mid-continental Volcanic Belt.
• The volcano has a complex structure featuring five summit craters and over 300 flank vents. This complexity has led to numerous eruptions that have been well-documented throughout history.
• Noteworthy eruptions include those at the summit in 2006, 2007-08, 2012 (twice), 2018, and 2021. Eruptions from the flank vents occurred in 2001, 2002-03, 2004-05, and 2008-09.
• Mount Etna has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013. It boasts an eruptive history dating back 500,000 years, with documented activity spanning at least 2,700 years.

About Volcanic Vortex Rings (VVRs):

• Volcanic Vortex Rings, also known as Volcanic Smoke Rings, are unique phenomena formed when gases, mostly water vapor, are rapidly expelled from a nearly circular vent in a crater.
• These fascinating rings were first seen at Mount Etna and Mount Vesuvius back in 1724. Since then, they have also been observed at other active volcanoes like Mount Redoubt, Tungurahua, and Eyjafjallajökull.
• Volcanic Smoke Rings can remain visible in the air for up to 10 minutes. However, they are fragile and can quickly disintegrate under windy conditions.

ref:Source