On Sunday afternoon, the Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted on La Palma and, according to the experts’ forecast, it will be active between 24 and 80 days. So far, more than 6,000 people have had to be evicted from their homes. A dramatic situation that makes us wonder which are the most active volcanoes in Europe .
Etna – Italy
Etna is an active volcano located on the east coast of Sicily. It is 3,357 meters high and covers an area of 1,190 square kilometers. It is almost always in eruption, and although there are times when it is very destructive, it is not seen as a dangerous volcano . In 2021 there have been two eruptions. The first, on February 16, and the second this week, on September 21. In the latter, the column of gases, ash and smoke has reached a height of nine meters.
Vesuvius – Italy
Mount Vesuvius is an active bolcán located very close to the city of Naples. It stands 1,281 meters above sea level and is well known for the eruption of AD 79, which buried the city of Pompeii . It is considered one of the most dangerous volcanoes not only in Europe, but in the whole world because three million people live in the surroundings. It is the most densely populated volcanic area globally.
Fagradalsfjall – Iceland
Fagradalsfjall is a volcano located in Iceland, between the North American and Eurasian plates. Since December 2019 and March 2021 the area has been shaken by different earthquakes. On March 19, an eruption occurred and began to expel lava. Although it does not pose any threat to the population, the Icelandic Meteorological Office closely monitors volcanic activity due to the risk of sulfur dioxide contamination .
Teide – Spain
And finally, Teide, a volcano located on the island of Tenerife. With an altitude of 3,715 meters above sea level, the last eruption took place between the 7th and 10th centuries . However, a recent study prepared by experts from the University of Granada, predicts that Mount Teide could have violent eruptions because the structure is very consolidated.
These are the most active volcanoes in Europe today. There are more than 1,500 potentially active volcanoes in the world, experts estimate .
