Recent reports of Mount Etna’s activity are sparking hesitation among the Maltese population as to whether it will affect our rock. We’ve got all the deets, so scroll down and keep calm (for now at least).

Things to know in the unlikely event Etna erupts

1. This is a natural process (it was bound to happen).

2.  It is also a very rare event... like, really rare.

3.  No collapse will affect the building of the tunnel between Malta and Gozo (yes, it’s still happening).

4. Safety precautions will be issued if the volcano erupts and/or collapses (again, this is super rare).

What does this all mean for our islands?

Reportedly, a large wave may be triggered if our neighbouring friend Etna decides she’s had enough and erupts all over the place, which may also lead to the volcano’s collapse into the sea (hence the chance of a tsunami). Before you call your nanna, great-uncle, and your family members in Australia though, chances of this happening have been referred to by experts as 'very rare'. So #keepcalmkids!

Is Catania safe to travel to?

Hold up. Does this mean I have to cancel my fifth trip to Sicily? Not just yet. The area around the Mount Etna Volcano is constantly monitored by a team of geologists who always take the necessary precautions and issue warnings if they deem the area unsafe for inhabitants and visitors.

So if you’re thinking of backpacking up the volcano, no one’s stopping you - just be vigilant with safety regulations. You don’t want to be barbecued, do you?