A volcano in southern Japan has erupted for the first time in 250 years, prompting authorities to establish a no-go zone around the mountain. Mount Io, part of the Kirishima mountain range on Kyushu island, blasted smoke and ash hundreds of metres into the sky on Thursday, ending a quiet period that had lasted since 1768.
Japan's Meteorological Agency on Friday expanded a no-go zone to the entire mountain from previously just around the volcano's crater. The agency warned that large flying rocks could fall over a three-kilometre (two-mile) radius. The eruption threw smoke and ash 400 metres (1,300 feet) into the air.
While the explosions have subsided, experts warn the volcano could still become more active. 'There is a possibility that (Mount Io) will become more active,' said Makoto Saito, an official from the Japan Meteorological Agency, confirming the eruption. In a televised press conference, he warned residents to stay away from the mountain as major ash deposits spread from the crater.
There were no immediate reports of injuries, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said, adding that the government was 'taking all possible measures' to prevent damage and casualties. Mount Io is one of Japan's 110 active volcanoes; the country lies within the Pacific Ring of Fire, where much of the world's earthquakes and eruptions take place.
Another volcano nearby, Shinmoedake, erupted violently in March for the first time in seven years. Shinmoedake featured in the 1967 James Bond film 'You Only Live Twice'.
