American Tourist Dies While Primary On Mount Etna Sicily

Mount Etna, Italy/ILLUSTRATION UNSPLASH/Giuseppe Famiani

JAKARTA - A 55-year-old American tourist died after falling ill while traveling on the south side of Mount Etna, in Sicily.

The Italian Alps rescue service said the cause of the disease was still unknown. But it has warned of high temperature risks coupled with humidity that may be dangerous for tourists who usually do not have special preparations for the trip.

After receiving warnings on Thursday, July 10 afternoon, rescue teams from the Alps and air ambulances managed to reach the man in remote areas.

The attempt to save American tourists was unsuccessful and was declared dead at the scene before his body was evacuated.

"Tourists participating in this campaign should not underestimate the risks related to high temperatures, high humidity, and sudden height spikes," said Alfio Ferrara, spokesman for the mountain rescue service.

"Often they agree to take part in the highway which reaches an altitude of 2,000-2,300 meters (6,500 to 9,800 feet), after spending days on the beach," he added.

On Thursday, the temperature on Mount Etna is estimated to be between 25 and 28 degrees Celsius.

Italian authorities have announced a red weather warning in seven cities on Thursday, mostly in the country's central region.

This hot condition is exacerbated by humidity and can have an impact on healthy people and those with health conditions.

Etna, Europe's highest active volcano, has seen a significant increase in activity over the past week.