Snow-capped Etna erupts as skiers use its slopes

On December 27, large clouds of ash and smoke were seen erupting from Mount Etna in Sicily as skiers used the slopes below.

Scientists at the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia said volcanic activity in the region, which erupts frequently, has intensified and the craters are constantly spewing ash.

In response, scientists issued a red Volcano Observatory Aviation Notice, the highest level, but officials said flights would continue to operate normally at a nearby airport unless ashfall increased.