New Zealand's White Island volcano, also known as Whakaari, erupted and left at least five people dead. It is believed that around 50 or so people were touring the uninhabited island as the eruption took place, although only 23 people have been rescued by authorities thus far.
Police have been providing frequent updates on the situation, although it would appear that all possible survivors have been evacuated. A popular tourist spot, the last time the volcano erupted was in 2001. People were spotted in the crater just moments before the eruption took place. Due to nightfall and the risk of further volcanic activity, rescue operations have stopped for the time being. "Based on the information we have, we do not believe there are any survivors on the island," police have revealed. The death count is expected to rise as people remain unaccounted for.
Michael Schade, who was touring the island shortly before the eruption happened, posted videos detailing the situation on Twitter. "My family and I had gotten off it 20 minutes before," he said alongside a video showing the scale of what happened. "We were waiting at our boat about to leave when we saw it."
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