Europe’s tallest active volcano, Mount Etna, has begun erupting in Italy.
The volcano is sending massive clouds of smoke into the sky above Catania.
The eruption, characterised as a Strombolian explosion, intensified throughout the morning, with near-continuous activity reported.
According to Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology, the eruption produced a thin layer of ashfall in the Piano Vetore area, following increased explosive activity, sending tourists fleeing for their lives as the smoke plume rises.
No towns at risk, but Catania’s airport may close.
