Mount Etna, Europe's highest volcano, erupts four times in six days

Etna eruption lights up night sky with lava glow

The highest active volcano in Europe, Mount Etna, has erupted for the fourth time in six days. 

The latest eruption in the southeast crater marks the 25th lava-fountaining episode this year.

According to NASA's Earth Observatory, "[Mount Etna] has been characterised by paroxysms: short, violent bursts of activity." 

Mount Etna is positioned at the southern boundary of the Eurasian tectonic plate where the African tectonic plate slides beneath it. 

Mount Etna is positioned across the Eurasian and African tectonic plates. (AP:Salvatore Allegra)

The mountain's geological characteristics indicate that it has been active since the Neogene Period, 2.6 million years ago.

The name Etna derives from the Greek Aitne, meaning "I burn". 

There has been no reported injuries or loss of life, however, the eruptions have forced the nearby town of Catania to temporarily close its airport. 

ABC/wires