Over 30 people are believed to be dead following a volcanic eruption in central Japan.
Ikuo Aoyagi is with the local government in nearby Nagano.
"According to the local fire department, there are eight people severely injured, including seven unconscious, and three were with minor injuries as of 16:00 today. And we've got unconfirmed reports on fatalities."
Hundreds of people became stranded on Mount Ontake over the weekend, but were able to make their way down off the mountain following the initial eruption.
However, around 40 people became stranded near the peak.
The volcano is popular among hikers.
