Mount Aso volcano in south-western Japan erupts into activity

Tokyo: Mount Aso in south-western Japan erupted on Wednesday morning, local media reported.The eruption sent thick clouds of ash up to 3,500 metres into the air, according to Japanese broadcaster NHK. The country’s meterological agency has warned residents of the surrounding region on Kyushu, Japan’s most south-western main island, not to approach the 1,592-metre-high volcano under any circumstances. There were initially no reports of injuries. Japan is home to more than 100 active volcanoes, around 50 of which are constantly monitored. -DPA