One of Japan's most active volcanoes has erupted dramatically, sending a massive plume of ash and smoke thousands of feet into the night sky and prompting urgent warnings for local residents.
The Dramatic Eruption
Sakurajima volcano in southern Japan erupted in the early hours of Sunday morning, spewing volcanic material approximately 14,400 feet into the atmosphere according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. Footage circulating online captures the terrifying moment the volcano in Kyushu region exploded, with a bright orange burst visible near the crater before a billowing cloud of dark ash engulfed the night sky.
The spectacular eruption created forks of lightning within the ash plume, creating a dramatic natural display. Despite the intensity of the explosion, authorities have reported no immediate damage in the surrounding areas.
Warnings and Precautions
The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued ashfall forecasts for parts of Kagoshima prefecture, where the volcano is located, and neighbouring Miyazaki prefecture. Officials have warned locals to take protective measures against the falling ash.
'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 agency advised residents.
The alert level remains at three on a five-point scale, which restricts access to the mountain but doesn't require evacuation of nearby communities.
Historical Context and Local Impact
Sakurajima has maintained volcanic activity since 1955, experiencing near-constant eruptions since that time. The volcano typically produces thousands of small explosions annually, projecting ash and rock several kilometres above the mountain.
This follows smaller eruptions observed as recently as May this year, when volcanic plumes reached up to 3km high and disrupted local air travel. Previous significant eruptions occurred in February 2024, February 2023, July 2022, and October 2020.
Several thousand residents live around Sakurajima, with numerous schools, shrines and shops located on the island. The area is a popular tourist destination known for its unique pottery made from volcanic ash, and local produce including the Sakurajima daikon radish and Sakurajima komikan orange, both cultivated in the region's rich volcanic soil.
