A massive eruption at Mt. Etna forced tourists to flee the volcano on Monday after a plume of high temperature gases, ash and rock “several kilometers high” billowed into the air above them, Italian authorities said.

Italy's Mount Etna on the island of Sicily erupted Monday, spewing ash and hot lava that sent tourists fleeing from the 10,925-foot mountain, which is one of the world's most active volcanoes.

Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, erupted on Monday morning, causing a chaotic scene at the popular Italian tourist attraction. According to CNN, Italian authorities said the explosion caused plumes of gases, ash and rock to shoot "several kilometers high” into the air. ...