Mount Etna erupted unexpectedly, launching huge plumes of ash into the air and prompting tourists to scramble for safety.

Flore Meuris was on a hike when the infamous volcano erupted in front of her.

Luckily the pair were at a safe distance and could capture this incredible moment.

Experts noted a series of increasingly intense explosions overnight, with tremors starting late Sunday and peaking beneath the crater by early morning.