SA sends condolences to Japan

Friday, October 3, 2014

Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has sent condolences to the government and people of Japan following the death of Japanese hikers after a volcano eruption at Mount Ontake.

“Our thoughts are with the people of Japan at this time of grief and sorrow in the wake of the loss of so many lives. The government and the people of South Africa wish the families, who have lost their loved ones, the strength to recover from this natural disaster,” said President Zuma.

The popular climbing destination, which straddles Nagano and Gifu prefectures, erupted before noon on Saturday.

The eruption of the volcano, which is 3 067 metres above sea level and 200 kilometres west of Tokyo, caused deadly ash and stone to rain down on the hiking site at the summit, which was packed with climbers, including children.

Search and rescue workers have put the death toll at 48, while efforts still continue. - SAnews.gov.za