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A volcanic island in New Zealand erupted Monday in a tower of ash and steam while dozens of tourists were exploring the moon-like surface, killing five people, 18 were injured and several more were left stranded. Police said some 50 people were visiting White Island when it exploded suddenly in the early afternoon — hurling ash and rock high into the air. Two dozen people made it off the island, five of whom have since died. The rest are being treated for injuries, including severe burns. Nothing is yet known about a group — now estimated to number in the double digits — who are still trapped on the island. (AP Photo)
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White Island sits about 50 kilometers (30 miles) offshore from mainland New Zealand. (Reuters Photo)
An aerial view shows the crater rim of Whakaari, also known as White Island, shortly before the volcano erupted in New Zealand. (Reuters Photo) 
The GeoNet agency, which monitors volcanoes and earthquakes in New Zealand, raised the alert level on White Island from one to two on November 18, noting an increase in the amount of sulfur dioxide gas, which originates from magma deep in the volcano. (Reuters Photo) -
White Island is northeast of the town of Tauranga on North Island, one of New Zealand's two main islands. Experts say it's New Zealand's most active cone volcano and about 70% of the volcano lies under the sea. (Reuters Photo)
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People are questioning why tourists were still able to visit the island after scientists recently noted an uptick in volcanic activity. (Reuters Photo)
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