MOUNT ETNA, EUROPE’S most active volcano, has erupted again, lighting up the sky over much of eastern Sicily and shooting up a towering column of ash.

The eruption, which began late Saturday and tapered off this morning, didn’t endanger any of the villages dotting the mountain’s slopes, and no evacuation was ordered.

Flights

The airport in nearby Catania said air space above the volcano was closed to flights, but that the airport itself was operating normally, including takeoffs and departures.

Etna erupts occasionally. Its last major eruption occurred in 1992.

Mt. Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, spews lava as smoke billows. (AP Photo)

World’s largest volcano discovered on the floor of the Pacific>

Photos: Clean-up begins after volcanic eruption in Japan coats city in ash>

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More

Mount Etna volcano in Sicily erupts

World’s largest volcano discovered on the floor of the Pacific>

Photos: Clean-up begins after volcanic eruption in Japan coats city in ash>

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.