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Mount Etna captivates tourists after blowing ‘smoke rings’ into sky in ultra-rare phenomenon

Monday, 08/04/2024, 16:18 (GMT+7)

The active volcano has been observed blowing 'smoke rings' into the sky, creating an ultra-rare phenomenon that has captivated viewers.

Mount Etna, an active volcano located in Italy, has recently astounded tourists with an extraordinary display of nature's power. 

It has been observed blowing 'smoke rings' into the sky, creating a mesmerizing and ultra-rare phenomenon that has captured the attention of viewers worldwide.

Mount Etna captivates tourists after blowing ‘smoke rings’ into sky in ultra-rare phenomenon 1
Mount Etna in Italy surprises tourists by blowing mesmerizing 'smoke rings' into the sky. Image Credit: Kultourvándor

Mount Etna captivates tourists after blowing  ‘smoke rings’ into the sky in an ultra-rare phenomenon

Recently, visitors to Mount Etna were treated to a stunning sight as numerous smoke rings appeared to rise from the volcano's mouth, giving the impression that the Earth itself was exhaling smoke.

This amazing scene caught on camera, showcased the volcano's unique characteristics. 

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Mount Etna mesmerizes with smoke rings rising from its mouth, captured in stunning footage. Image Credit: Kultourvándor

While smoke rings can be produced by volcanoes around the world, it is exceptionally uncommon for a single volcano to emit such a considerable number of them.

Unlike most volcanoes that release a mere puff of gas, the specific shape and size of Etna's vents create circular openings. 

Expert reveals the secret behind these mysterious smoke rings

According to Professor Matthew Watson,  a volcanologist at the University of Bristol, gas is occasionally expelled in a manner that forms a smoke ring.

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The smoke rings persist due to a vortex, with spinning rings keeping them intact in the atmosphere for minutes. Image Credit: Kultourvándor

He stated that these smoke rings exist because of the vortex created, with visible spinning rings holding them together in the atmosphere for several minutes.

While many people suppose that this phenomenon can be a sign of natural catastrophe, Professor Watson assures that it is a natural occurrence to admire. 

He said that this phenomenon showed that the geometry and degassing of the volcano is quite a bit of a sweet spot.

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Despite misconceptions of catastrophe, Professor Watson assures it's a natural occurrence to admire. Image Credit: Kultourvándor

Mount Etna, is known as Europe's most active volcano and has a long history of documented eruptions.

This volcano has even made its way onto the big screen, with footage of its eruptions used in the movie Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith.

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Footage of Mount Etna's eruptions also featured in Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. Image Credit: Kultourvándor

This is not the first time smoke rings have been witnessed rising from Mount Etna. Similar events were captured in the past, including in the 1970s, 2000, 2013, and 2023.