- One man has been killed, after being hit by falling volcanic rocks
- At least 11 people were injured during the eruption – some critically
- The Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA) has not ruled out further eruptions
- Skiers trapped by avalanche caused by Kusatsu-Shirane eruption
Bringing you the latest news and live updates from the Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA) and other officials sources (All times in GMT).
6.41pm: ‘There may be another eruption’, expert warns
Volcanologist Toshitsugu Fujii has described the Japanese volcano’s eruption as “explosive” warning that another is possible.
Speaking to national broadcaster NHK, he said: “Seeing cinders falling in the videos, it is certain that an explosive eruption occurred.
“We need to be warned, as there may be another eruption.”
6pm: Soldier killed after being hit by volcanic rocks
A member of Japan‘s Ground Self Defence Force (SDF) has died after being struck by volcanic rocks blasted into the air by Kusatsu-Shirane.
The Ministry of Defence said in a statement that seven SDF member were hit by the rocks while engaged in winter training manoeuvres on the volcano.
All were rescued, with one dying later, the MoD added.
5.26pm: Skier trapped by avalanche
One person was trapped on Kusatsu-Shirane after the volcano triggered a huge avalanche.
The skier was trapped in the snow for some time before being dug out by rescuers, who included SDF members, according to Reuters.
One skier told NHK: “There was this huge boom, and a big plume of totally black smoke rose up.
“I had absolutely no idea what had happened.”
Another said: “Other people appeared to be hurt by the stones, which appeared to be around 10 to 20 cm in size.”
About 80 skiers, including some non-Japanese at a hut at the top of the mountain, were later rescued by helicopters on Tuesday afternoon.