Several Injured in Volcano Eruption in Japan
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iStock/Thinkstock(TOKYO) — A volcano erupted in central Japan early Saturday morning, forcing climbers and workers to flee.
In its first eruption in seven years, Mt. Ontake sent a plume of ash nearly two miles into the sky, diverting planes from local airports. The 10,000-foot Mount Ontake is on the border of Nagano and Gifu prefectures.
At least 40 people were injured, NHK reports. More than 200 hikers were stranded, but most have made their way down the mountain.
The Japan meteorological agency has warned hikers to stay away, issuing a level 3 out of 5 warning, which places a “do not approach” notice on the mountain. Agencies are also forecasting further eruptions and hikers in a 2.5 mile radius have been warned of falling debris.
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