Volcanic activity usually involves slow, gurgling flows—rarely spewing lava and ash into the sky. But Mount Etna erupted in awe-inspiring fashion on Thursday morning, shooting a stream of lava about 3,200 ft. (975 m) into the air above Sicily, and a plume of ash about three times as high.
The eruption thickly covered a number of neighboring villages with ash and shut down the nearest airport on the Italian island, but no injuries have thus far been reported.
During the spew, volcanic lightning illuminated the billowing clouds. The electric occurrence only happens during the most powerful eruptions.
The event lasted 50 minutes, which was enough time for photographers and videographers to capture the fiery spectacle.
More Must-Reads From TIME
- Who Will Be TIME's Person of the Year 2023?
- Why Cell Phone Reception Is Getting Worse
- The Dirty Secrets of Alternative Plastics
- Column: It's Time to Scrap the Abraham Accords
- Israeli Family Celebrates Release of Hostage Grandmother
- In a New Movie, Beyoncé Finds Freedom
- The Top 100 Photos of 2023
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time