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Volcano erupts in central Japan

Warnings have been issued saying volcanic debris may fall within 4km of the peak
Warnings have been issued saying volcanic debris may fall within 4km of the peak

A volcano erupted in central Japan, shooting ash and rocks into the air killing one woman and leaving 30 people seriously injured.

The eruption of the 3,067m Mount Ontake happened around midday.

Television footage showed huge clouds of smoke billowing from the summit of the peak, which is a popular destination for trekkers.

The meteorological agency forecast further eruptions of the mountain, warning that volcanic debris may fall within 4km of the peak.

The agency also placed restrictions on access to the mountain, while calling on local residents to remain on alert as an eruption could shatter windows miles away.