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Volcano Erupts in Japan: Search and Rescue Crews at Work

A sudden volcano eruption in Japan leads to a desperate search and rescue mission.

Located 125 miles west of Tokyo, Mount Ontake, Japan's second largest volcano after Mount Fuji, erupted unexpectantly over the weekend. Authorities estimated that upwards of 200 people were in the area at the time of the eruption.
An eruption occurs when lava and gas are discharged from a volcanic vent.

Dozens of hikers are still missing as the plume of ash and smoke make it difficult - and dangerous - for search teams. Nearly two feet of ash cover the ground in some areas.

The volcanic alert has been raised from one to three by the Japan Meteorological Agency, and authorities worry that another large eruption could still take place.

stephanie.jarvis@ideastream.org | 216-916-6340