Snow-capped Mount Etna erupts as skiers use its slopes

Mount Etna in Sicily erupted with massive ash and smoke plumes on 27 December, captured while skiers were on the slopes. The Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia reported increased volcanic activity, with craters consistently spewing ash. A red Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation was issued, the highest level, but flights at the nearby airport were unaffected unless ashfall rose significantly.