Japan Volcano Eruption: Latest Updates, Locations, and Safety Precautions

japan volcano eruption: Japan is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and stunning mountains. However, it is also one of the most volcanically active countries in the world. If you are planning to travel to Japan or you live there, staying updated on recent volcano eruptions is important for your safety.

In this article, you will learn about the latest Japan volcano eruption news, major active volcanoes in Japan, safety precautions, and some of the country’s historical eruptions.

Latest Japan Volcano Eruption News

Japan experiences multiple volcanic activities every year. Recently, there was an eruption at Mount Sakurajima in Kagoshima Prefecture. The eruption sent ash plumes high into the sky, and local authorities issued alerts for nearby residents to stay indoors and wear masks to avoid inhaling ash particles.

As of now, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has maintained a high alert level for Mount Sakurajima. They continue to monitor it closely for any signs of a larger eruption.

If you are in Japan, always check the JMA website for real-time updates before visiting areas near active volcanoes.

Major Active Volcanoes in Japan

Japan has over 100 active volcanoes, but here are some of the most prominent ones:

Mount Sakurajima
Located in Kagoshima, this volcano is one of the most active in Japan. It erupts frequently, sending ash over the city. It is a popular tourist spot, but visitors must stay within safe zones.

Mount Aso
Situated in Kumamoto Prefecture, Mount Aso is known for having one of the world’s largest calderas. It last erupted in 2021, creating spectacular lava fountains and ash clouds.

Mount Ontake
Mount Ontake, located between Nagano and Gifu, erupted unexpectedly in 2014, leading to tragic casualties among hikers. It is now closely monitored for any volcanic tremors.

Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji has not erupted since 1707, but it is still classified as an active volcano. Experts continue to study it, as a future eruption could impact areas around Tokyo.

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Safety Precautions During a Volcano Eruption

If you live near an active volcano or are travelling in Japan, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Always follow local government announcements and evacuation orders.
• Stay indoors if there is ashfall to avoid inhaling fine ash particles.
• Wear a mask or cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth if you must go outside during ashfall.
• Avoid driving during heavy ashfall, as it can reduce visibility and damage car engines.
• Keep an emergency bag ready with water, food, a flashlight, and a battery-powered radio to receive updates.

Historical Significant Eruptions in Japan

Japan has a long history of significant volcanic eruptions. Here are a few:

Mount Unzen (1991)
The eruption caused pyroclastic flows that led to many deaths and widespread damage in Nagasaki Prefecture.

Mount Ontake (2014)
This unexpected eruption caught hikers off guard, leading to over 50 fatalities. It was the deadliest volcanic eruption in Japan in nearly 90 years.

Mount Fuji (1707)
Known as the Hoei Eruption, it lasted for more than two weeks. Although there were no lava flows, ash fell as far as Edo (modern-day Tokyo).

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do volcanoes erupt in Japan?
Minor eruptions and volcanic activity occur frequently in Japan, but major eruptions are less common. However, all active volcanoes are monitored daily.

Is Mount Fuji likely to erupt soon?
There are no signs of an immediate eruption at Mount Fuji, but it remains under constant observation by experts due to its potential risks.

Where can I check real-time eruption alerts?
You can visit the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) website for real-time updates and volcanic alerts for all regions.