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Italy's Mount Etna Is Erupting, And It's Magnificent

The stunning display, which began on Monday, could last anywhere from days to weeks.
Italy's Mount Etna, Europe's tallest and most active volcano, spews lava on Feb. 28, 2017.
Antonio Parrinello/Reuters
Italy's Mount Etna, Europe's tallest and most active volcano, spews lava on Feb. 28, 2017.

Powerful fountains of lava and volcanic ash are spewing out of the earth in southern Italy ― and viewers around the world can watch it all from the comfort and safety of their computer chairs.

Multiple online videos have captured Sicily’s Mount Etna putting on a fiery show since it started erupting on Monday evening.

Italy's Mount Etna, Europe's tallest and most active volcano, spews lava on Feb. 28, 2017.
Antonio Parrinello/Reuters
Italy's Mount Etna, Europe's tallest and most active volcano, spews lava on Feb. 28, 2017.

According to the Smithsonian’s Global Volcanism program, Mount Etna is one of the world’s most active and longest-documented volcanoes.

The volcanic eruption could last anywhere from days to weeks, The Associated Press reported.

Though volcanic ash can cause flight disruptions and other dangers, air traffic was reportedly normal at Sicily’s Catania airport on Tuesday. Authorities have reported that it poses no danger to the surrounding towns.

Euronews has meanwhile reported that people have been seen skiing along Mount Etna’s powdered slopes.