Major Volcanic Eruption Disrupts Life in Southern Japan
In a dramatic display of nature's force, the Sakurajima volcano on Japan's Kyushu island erupted explosively in the early hours of Sunday. The powerful event sent a massive column of volcanic ash soaring more than 4,400 meters (2.7 miles) into the sky, creating significant disruption and leading to the cancellation of dozens of flights.
Timeline of the Eruptive Activity
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that the initial, explosive eruption occurred at the Minamidake crater at around 1 am local time on Sunday. The volcanic activity did not subside there. The region experienced two subsequent eruptions, one at approximately 2:30 am and another at 8:50 am.
This event marked a significant milestone, as the volcanic plume rose above the 4,000-meter mark for the first time since October 18 of the previous year. The agency promptly issued an ashfall forecast for parts of Kagoshima, Kumamoto, and Miyazaki prefectures, warning residents of the ongoing danger.
Safety Measures and Immediate Impact
Authorities have urged citizens to take necessary precautions. "In areas where a moderate amount of ashfall is expected, please take measures to protect yourself from ash, such as using umbrellas or masks, and make sure to drive slowly," the JMA advised. The alert level remains at three on a scale of five, which officially restricts access to the mountain.
Despite the scale of the eruption, local officials confirmed a silver lining. No injuries or damage to buildings have been reported following the volcanic event, as stated by an official from Kagoshima prefecture to AFP.
Travel Chaos as Ash Grounds Flights
The volcanic ash had an immediate and tangible impact on transportation. Reports from local media confirmed that a total of 30 flights operating in and out of the Kagoshima Airport were cancelled. The cancellations were a direct result of the hazardous ashfall and related safety concerns.
The JMA indicated that the ash was drifting in a northeasterly direction, with expectations for it to fall within Kagoshima and nearby Miyazaki Prefecture throughout Sunday. Sakurajima, one of Japan's most active volcanoes, is historically significant. It was once an island but became connected to the Osumi Peninsula by a land bridge formed during a major lava flow in 1914.
