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Natural disasters

No Russians reported among tourists on erupting Japanese volcano

Thirty-two people were discovered on the volcano with lung and heart failure

© EPA/KIMIMASA MAYAMA

TOKYO, September 29. /ITAR-TASS/. Russia's Embassy in Tokyo said on Monday there were no reports that Russians were present on the Ontake volcano when it began erupting.

Japan’s second-highest mount after Fuji, a popular spot among locals and foreign tourists, began erupting on Saturday when hundreds of visitors were climbing at the spot, 200km west of Tokyo.

Most visitors descended 3,067m slopes but scores were trapped due to poor visibility and toxic gases. Most of people were rescued. More than 60 people needed medical care and more than 40, suffering from serious injuries, were taken to hospital.

Rescuers suspended operations there on Monday because of toxic gases and the threat of lava discharges. Reports that people were found alive have not been confirmed.

Thirty-two people were discovered on the volcano with lung and heart failure, police said. The bodies of 12 of them were carried down by helicopter.

Ontake last erupted in 2007. In a powerful eruption in 1979, the giant released more than 200,000 tons of ash.

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Japan Natural disasters

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