Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano, erupted Monday morning, spewing a massive ash cloud about 21,325 feet high. A red aviation alert was briefly issued, but later lowered as volcanic activity decreased. The eruption, captured on multiple webcams, caused temporary tourist closures but didn't significantly impact nearby communities. While the ash cloud moved westward, Catania Airport remained operational. Etna's eruptions, mostly Strombolian, are a common occurrence with a long history.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.