Spectacular footage shows erupting Mount Aso propelling ash clouds into Japanese skyline

Spectacular footage shows an erupting Mount Aso, Japan, propelling huge ash clouds in the sky on October 20.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said that Mount Aso, a popular tourist destination on the island of Kyushu, erupted and sent plumes of ash 3.5km (2.2 miles) high at about 11:43 am local time.

Residents were warned to stay away amid fears of lava flows and falling rocks.