American Tourist Dies Suddenly on Famed Italian Mountain Excursion
Millions of tourists visit Italy every year, with summer remaining a popular travel time for tourists. However, one traveler from the United States' trip quickly turned into a tragedy while climbing Mount Etna.
Etna, the tallest active volcano in Europe, is best known for its breathtaking eruptions that sometimes leave the surrounding area covered in ash. On July 11, an American tourist was on an excursion on the southern side of the mountain when the 55-year-old suddenly died on the trip.
According to The Associated Press, Italian alpine rescue service members tried to reach the man in a remote part of the mountain but seemingly arrived too late. They attempted to revive him but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The exact cause for his sudden illness remains unknown, but the authorities warned that summer temperatures, humidity, and Etna's height could have all played a part in his death.
"Tourists who participate in these excursions should not underestimate the risks related to high temperatures, strong humidity, and the sudden jump in altitude," alpine rescue service spokesman Alfio Ferrara said, per the AP. "Often they agree to take part in these excursions that reach 2,000-2,300 meters [6,500 to 9,800 feet] in altitude, after spending the day at the beach."
The weather on Mount Etna was estimated to be between 77 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit the day of the incident. Humidity makes the heat worse, and Italian authorities issued heat warnings for cities across the country that day.
If you're planning to visit Etna this summer, make sure you're prepared with water and sun protection.