Italy's iconic Mount Etna, located in Sicily, has erupted once again, causing a massive ash cloud and disrupting flights in the region. This marks the fifth eruption the volcano has experienced this summer, according to the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV).

The eruption on Sunday was accompanied by a lava fountain that sent ash soaring over 32,000 feet above nearby towns. Video footage captured by the INGV's surveillance showed the intense activity, with a column of ash rising from the volcano, partially obscuring the sky.

Flights at Catania International Airport in Sicily were temporarily suspended as a precautionary measure, after the ash release ceased. However, officials have warned that further delays are possible due to the ongoing eruption.

The recent eruption is the result of strombolic activity, which has been frequent on Mount Etna since late June. The INGV reported ongoing lava flows from the Bocca Nuova and Voragine craters, indicating that the volcanic activity is still ongoing.

Standing at over 11,000 feet in height, Mount Etna is one of the tallest active volcanoes in Europe and holds the distinction of having the longest documented history of eruptions among all known volcanoes. Records of its eruptions date back as far as 425 B.C., making it a significant natural phenomenon with a rich historical legacy.

Situated at the convergent plate margin where the African Plate meets the Eurasian Plate, Mount Etna's eruptive behavior is a result of intense geological activity in the region. It serves as a reminder of the unpredictability and power of our planet's natural forces.

While the sights of volcanic eruptions can be awe-inspiring, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety of residents and visitors in the area. The ash clouds can pose health hazards, and precautions are being taken to minimize the impact of the eruption on the surrounding communities.

As Mount Etna continues to assert its fiery presence, it remains a mesmerizing reminder of the constant activity of our ever-evolving planet.