Quote:

Europe's tallest and most active volcano, Mount Etna, has erupted for the fifth time in 2012, spewing hot lava and ash in the early hours of Sunday.

The lava, which could be seen moving down the mountain's side just after 4am local time, continued to spew until around 5.30am, according to local news reports.

Ash from the eruption landed on the villages at the foot of the volcano, however no damage was reported and nearby airports remained open.