Deadly volcanic eruption rocks Japanese ski resort

A sudden volcanic eruption in central Japan on Tuesday killed at least one soldier and injured 11 other people as they skied on the mountain’s slopes. Mount Kusatsu-Shirane’s eruption spewed volcanic rocks and black ash across the ski slope, sending people fleeing for shelter. Defense officials said eight injured soldiers belonged to a group of 30 undergoing ski training when the volcano erupted. Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera identified the dead soldier as Wataru Tatsukawa and said five other soldiers sustained serious injuries. Local officials confirmed everyone on the mountain, including about 80 skiers, were accounted for. Officials had earlier put the volcano’s crater off-limits due to low-level volcanic activity. The Japan Meteorological Agency banned access to the mountain following the eruption. The Mount Kusatsu-Shirane region is well known for the famous hot springs at the Kusatsu Onsen resort.