Japanese officials say at least 36 people are feared dead after the unexpected eruption of Mount Ontake.

Rescuers on the peak say they’ve discovered five more bodies under the grey ash that makes the mountain look like the surface of the moon.  The search for victims is being suspended because of fears of toxic gases breaking through the mountain.

At least 12 people are confirmed to be dead with 63 injuries.  At least 8 are missing and officials say it’s likely the missing people are dead.

The eruption of the mountain’s over 10,000-foot peak struck when hundreds of climbers were on the mountain.  The mountain is a site where families would take children to see the leaves change color or to enjoy the breathtaking views.

Now, the paths on the mountain have ash as much as knee-deep.

The last major eruption of the mountain was in 1979 although there was a minor eruption seven years ago.

Japan’s Metrological Agency said they might reconsider their surveillance system for volcanoes.