ETNA ERUPTION.

Press, Volume LXIV, Issue 19462, 8 November 1928, Page 11

ETNA ERUPTION.

VILLAGES DESERTED.

LAVA STRtAMS ADVANCE.

(OKITED PSMB ASSOCIATION—BT RLECTIUO TtLSQBAPH—COFTBIOHT.) (Received "November 7th, 9.8 p.m.) GATANIA, November 6. The Mcniht Eth«i Eruptiori is still causing alarming and terrifying explosions and subterranean rumblings. Showers of ashes, cinders, and incandescent stones continue, accompanied by Vari-coloured flames suggesting a gigantic fireworks display. One enormous explosion in the afternoon shook the whole regiori. Hundreds of small craters of varying activity have broken Professor Pronti, Director of the Etna Observatory* explains that this is due to lava travelling several miles from the main craters seeking an outlet. .. , ..„. The great lava stream is now Within half ft mile of Mascali, whose population of 10.000 has.completely evacuated the town, with the assistance of .troops, the Fascist civic authorities, and priests. The lava, has destroyed all communications and bridges, including a 90-foot iron rail bridg«< which was contorted as if it were of straw. Another lava stream is advance ing several hundred feet hourly, and is threatening Giarre WhicKj with its neighbouring villages, has been evacuated. ... » at Processions carrying relics or St. Vitus and images' of St. Leonard, alternatively facing the lava and praying for Divine intervention, are retreating as. tho red-hot stream approaches.. .. „, ... Word from Home stated that the Pope is most, anxious about the Etna situation, and lias sfirit a message to the sufferers that he is praying for the cessation df the lava flow.—Australian Press Association.