What Happened During the Eruption of Japan's Shinmoedake Volcano?
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Synopsis
Discover the dramatic eruption of Shinmoedake volcano in Japan's Kirishima mountain range. With an ash plume exceeding 3,000 meters and ongoing alerts from the Japan Meteorological Agency, learn how this natural phenomenon impacts nearby regions.
Key Takeaways
- Shinmoedake volcano erupted on August 10, sending ash over 3,000 meters high.
- The ash plume is drifting northeast, potentially affecting areas in Miyazaki Prefecture.
- The Japan Meteorological Agency has issued warnings and maintained alert level at 3.
- Residents should be vigilant of falling volcanic rocks within 3 kilometers.
- Previous significant eruptions occurred in June.
Tokyo, Aug 10 (NationPress) A significant eruption took place at the Shinmoedake volcano in Japan's Kirishima mountain range at approximately 5:23 a.m. local time on Sunday, producing an ash plume that ascended more than 3,000 meters above the crater, as reported by local media.
This volcano, which straddles the border of Kagoshima and Miyazaki prefectures, has been active intermittently since June 27. The ash cloud from the recent eruption is moving northeast and may extend to areas like Takanabe in Miyazaki Prefecture, according to Japan's NHK broadcaster.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued warnings about moderate ashfall expected in Kobayashi and Takaharu in Miyazaki Prefecture, as well as in Kirishima in Kagoshima Prefecture, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Small volcanic rocks are also projected to fall within a radius of about 14 kilometers northeast of the crater, the JMA indicated.
The agency has kept the eruption alert level at 3, advising the local population to be vigilant for large volcanic rocks within 3 kilometers of the crater and for pyroclastic flows within 2 kilometers.
Previously, on June 22, the volcano erupted for the first time since 2018. The JMA recorded the event occurring around 4:37 p.m. local time, sending an ash plume over 500 meters into the sky.
The ash drifted east toward Miyazaki Prefecture, and no falling volcanic rocks were reported at that time, according to Japan’s national broadcasting agency.
Volcanic alert level 2 was maintained, restricting access near the crater for some time. Authorities advised caution within a 2-km radius of the crater due to the risk of large volcanic rocks and pyroclastic flows within around 1 kilometer.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant, especially on the downwind side where ash and small rocks may be carried over considerable distances.
Last year, another volcano on Sakurajima in Kagoshima Prefecture, located in southwestern Japan, erupted, producing plumes that reached 3,400 meters above the summit crater, as reported by the country's weather agency.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of monitoring volcanic activity closely. The recent eruption of Shinmoedake serves as a significant reminder of nature's unpredictable power. It is crucial for residents and authorities to remain vigilant and prepared, ensuring public safety during such events.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Shinmoedake volcano to erupt?
The eruption of Shinmoedake volcano is attributed to geological activity in the region, particularly the movement of tectonic plates, leading to increased volcanic activity.
How far can volcanic ash travel?
Volcanic ash can travel significant distances, often carried by winds, depending on the eruption's intensity and atmospheric conditions.
What safety measures should residents take during an eruption?
Residents should stay indoors, keep windows closed, and wear masks to avoid inhaling ash. It's also advisable to have an emergency kit ready.
Is the Shinmoedake volcano active?
Yes, Shinmoedake volcano has been intermittently active, with eruptions occurring since June 27, and the Japan Meteorological Agency is monitoring its activity closely.
What is the current alert level for Shinmoedake?
The Japan Meteorological Agency has maintained the eruption alert level at 3, advising residents to be cautious of volcanic rocks and pyroclastic flows.
