Powerful explosive eruptions have been recorded at the Sakurajima volcano in Japan, according to The Watchers.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), the volcano has released a column of ash and smoke rising up to 3,000 meters into the atmosphere. Meteorologists warn that ashfall is expected to occur to the southeast of the volcano. Forecasts suggest that even small volcanic rocks could be carried by winds up to 7 kilometers away.
The JMA has raised the alert level to three out of five and has restricted access to the volcano’s summit. Residents of the region are urged to exercise caution due to the threat of fast-moving hot gas flows and falling volcanic rocks. Ash may reduce visibility and create hazardous road conditions in affected areas. Authorities also warn that small solid particles could impact air travel, and in case of heavy ash accumulation, airports may be closed.
Sakurajima is one of Japan’s most active volcanoes and a popular tourist destination. Its largest eruption occurred between 1471 and 1476. Since 1955, the volcano has been erupting almost continuously.
