Etna volcano update: Continuing lava flows, growing spatter cones

No significant variations in activity have occurred during the past days. Small lava flows are being fed by the new fissure vent at the eastern base of the NE crater. At the vent, this activity is accompanied by spattering, sometimes resembling strombolian-type explosions with ejections up to approx. 100 m in height.
2 spatter cones have been growing at the vents. They have been called "hornitos", although this term strictly spoken refers to smaller chimney-like structures that can form on top of skylights above lava tubes, where degassing jets throw out small amounts of lava to pile up to form them.
Starting from around 7 July, the lava flow has formed a second branch further to the north. Its furthest flow front has reached a length of approx. 1.5 km.
Tremor remains stable at slightly elevated levels.