Mt. Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, has been putting on a mesmerizing show for spectators in Sicily with its unique display of circular smoke rings. The volcano, often compared to the pipe-puffing wizard Gandalf from “Lord of the Rings,” has been dubbed the Gandalf of volcanoes by experts.
According to Boris Behncke, a volcanologist at the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology of Catania, Mt. Etna has broken all previous records with the frequency of the smoke rings it has been emitting. The rings, known as volcanic vortex rings, are created when pressure builds up and propels condensed gases, mainly water vapor, through a vent in the crater.
Simona Scollo, another volcanologist at the INGV Etna Observatory in Catania, described the phenomenon as “bellissimo,” using the Italian word for beautiful. She compared the mechanism of the smoke rings to how dolphins blow bubble rings, creating a similar pressure to form a ring.
While the smoke rings may be captivating to watch, Ms. Scollo reassured that they do not indicate a spectacular eruption is imminent. The rings can last anywhere from one to 10 minutes depending on weather conditions, and turbulence can cause them to dissipate more quickly.
Mt. Etna has been producing hundreds of smoke rings from a new vent, with another opening on the volcano also emitting rings, albeit less frequently. This phenomenon has been observed on Etna since 1724, with periodic sightings over the years, including a particularly spectacular display in 2000.
The UNESCO World Heritage site is known for being the highest Mediterranean island mountain and the most active stratovolcano in the world. Mr. Behncke noted that no other volcano on earth produces as many volcanic vortex rings as Etna.
While Mt. Etna is not the only volcano where this phenomenon has been observed, it is certainly one of the most prolific. From Nicaragua to Iceland to Alaska, volcanic vortex rings have been documented at various volcanoes around the world.
As the activity from the new vent on Mt. Etna begins to slow down, Ms. Scollo explained that it could eventually come to a halt due to changes in the conduit or a decrease in gas within the vent. Despite the potential end of this captivating display, the study of volcanic vortex rings continues to provide valuable insights into the inner workings of volcanoes during both calm and active periods.
