The volcano suddenly erupted at 2.11pm local time, sending a 12,000ft plume of smoke and rock into the air.
Images showed one group of people trekking across the centre of the volcano’s crater just a minute before the eruption.
Twenty three people were brought off the island, of whom five later died.
Survivors of the blast were taken to hospitals on New Zealand’s North Island, many with severe burns.
Prayers for the victims and their families. I will say that trekking in or near an active volcano IS NOT on my list of things to do
Wife and I flew out there about 4 years ago for a visit. There was only us and the helicopter pilot on the island. It was an interesting place to visit but I was always aware I was standing on something potentially dangerous – which is part of the fun I guess. We have also been on Tanna Island in Vanuatu and visited Yassur volcano there. That was far more spectacular with blobs of lava erupting into the low cloud above the mountain and falling back within the crater rim not far away. Very exciting and recommended.
Brown, you know my uncle Dale, his brother Ross just died a couple of weeks ago. I went to his funeral and did a speech as his son. Just thought I’d keep you informed.
It seems appropriate as the topic is about people being injured or dead.
I know of your uncle Dale through a mutual aquaintance but, alas, never met him. I did come across Dales grave accidentally at the Akatarawa Cemetery while burying a mate. I have one of Dale’s books and enjoy it on occasion – I like what he writes and suspect I’d have liked him. I didn’t know of Ross at all but offer my condolences. Going through a divorce over 20 years ago left me pretty damaged and my lovely second wife says I lack empathy but I just hide it away.
Hi Brown, thanks for your response. Wasn’t sure how close you were to the Tooley clan; whether you knew of other Tooleys. Now I know and now you know of two Tooleys.
“The disaster followed a series of warning signs that had been growing more alarming over recent weeks, as questions are asked about why tour groups were allowed to visit the island.”
Can’t disappoint those tourists you know.
A few neighbours just told me.
I understand the novelty of visiting active volcanoes, I have done so myself in Vanuatu. There will always be a risk, so provided the risk is explained, each tourist bears it themselves. It is a tragedy for those families affected.
Darwin at work…..😁
Old school coppers are going in. Team Dirty Harry. Mines Rescue are on standby.
Grownups have taken over for a bit.