This Hidden Force in Etna’s Slopes Is Turning the Island Red!

Tue, 05 May 2026 10:09:37 +0000

This Hidden Force in Etna’s Slopes Is Turning the Island Red: Discover the Hidden Power Reshaping Mount Etna’s Landscape Mount Etna, Sicily’s legendary active volcano, stands as one of Earth’s most dynamic and awe-inspiring natural wonders. While its dramatic eruptions and lava flows have long captivated scientists and adventurers alike, a lesser-known phenomenon is quietly unfolding: a hidden force subtly transforming the slopes of Etna—and turning vast stretches of the island a striking red. ### The Unseen Catalyst: Volcanic Oxidation and Iron Oxide-Rich Lava What’s causing the island’s slopes to shift from green and gray to vibrant crimson? The answer lies beneath the surface—and deep within Etna’s molten core. Recent geological studies reveal that accelerating oxidation processes of iron-rich minerals in basaltic lava, combined with intense surface weathering of sulfur compounds, are generating a powerful rust-like effect. As fresh lava emerges from vents, it reacts with air and moisture, triggering rapid iron oxidation. This natural transformation creates expansive red-hued crusts and slopes, earning the slopes of Etna a brilliant, crimson glow that stands out even from space.