In brief
An American tourist was fatally struck by lightning while hiking on Mount Etna in Sicily amid a sudden thunderstorm. He was found in cardiac arrest late on Sunday and transported by helicopter to a hospital, where he died. The volcano, Italy’s most active, has seen frequent eruptions causing ash‑laden skies and flight disruptions. Authorities have limited access to higher slopes due to the combined risks of volcanic activity and rapid weather.
US hiker dies after being struck by lightning on Mount Etna.
A 30‑year‑old American tourist was hiking on Italy’s active volcano when a sudden thunderstorm struck the area, BBC reports.
Firefighters found the man in cardiac arrest around 20:00 local time (18:00 GMT) near a restricted path used to approach the summit. He was airlifted to Cannizzaro Hospital in Catania but was declared dead on arrival.
Etna has erupted repeatedly in recent weeks, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Volcanic ash has also grounded flights at Catania International Airport, with a red aviation alert later downgraded to orange.
Authorities have restricted access to higher slopes because the combination of volcanic activity and rapid weather changes makes conditions hazardous. The Italian civil protection agency warns hikers to stay clear of exposed areas.
