
White Island volcano, New Zealand
A volcano erupted in New Zealand on Monday leaving at least one dead and seven tourists critically injured. Police said there could be more fatalities. 23 people have been transported to shore and over 27 remain on the island.
"We are working to confirm the numbers involved. At this stage, it is too dangerous for police and rescue services to go to the island. However, we continue to assess the conditions which would allow us to go onto the island", Police Deputy Commissioner John Tims said.
CEO of the New Zealand Cruise Association Kevin O'Sullivan confirmed that 30 to 38 of the victims are passengers of the cruise ship Ovation of the Seas.
The eruption began about 2:11 p.m. local time (0111 GMT) on White Island, about 50 kilometres from the east coast of North Island, authorities said, sending up smoke visible from the mainland.
Police is working with National Emergency Management Agency to coordinate the search and rescue operation.
Comment: Another volcano on the ring of fire erupted just today: White Island Volcano erupts in New Zealand: At least five people dead & cruise ship tourists missing - UPDATE