Sakurajima Volcano Erupts, Causing Flight Cancellations in Japan

On Sunday, November 16, 2023, Sakurajima, one of Japan's most active volcanoes located on Kyushu Island in Kagoshima Prefecture, erupted multiple times, sending ash and smoke plumes up to 4,400 meters (14,436 feet) into the atmosphere. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported three distinct eruptions occurring at 1:00 a.m., 2:30 a.m., and 8:50 a.m. local time. This marked the first eruption reaching heights of 4 kilometers or more in nearly 13 months.

Japan's Sakurajima volcano erupts, ashfall cancels multiple flightsJapan’s Sakurajima volcano erupts multiple times, cancels flightsSakurajima volcano erupts in Japan, sending ash 4,400 meters into the airKyabram Free PressDawn

The volcanic activity significantly disrupted air travel, leading to the cancellation of approximately 30 flights in and out of Kagoshima Airport due to ashfall and related safety concerns. The ash drifted northeast, prompting forecasts of ashfall in Kagoshima and neighboring Miyazaki and Kumamoto prefectures.

Kyabram Free PressThe New Zealand HeraldJapan’s Sakurajima volcano erupts multiple times, cancels flightsThe Straits TimesJapan's Sakurajima volcano erupts, ashfall cancels multiple flights

In response to the eruptions, the JMA maintained an alert level of three on a five-point scale, which restricts access to the mountain. Authorities advised residents to take precautions against falling ash, recommending the use of umbrellas or masks and urging drivers to reduce speed. No injuries or structural damage have been reported as a result of the eruptions.

Ashfall warning in Japan as Sakurajima volcano erupts

Sakurajima has a long history of volcanic activity, with eruptions occurring regularly. It was once an island but became connected to the Osumi Peninsula following a significant lava flow in 1914. The volcano is known for its explosive eruptions, with past events having produced ash plumes as high as 5.5 kilometers in 2019.

Sakurajima volcano erupts in Japan, sending ash 4,400 meters into the airJapan’s Sakurajima volcano erupts multiple times, cancels flightsDawnJapan's Sakurajima volcano erupts, ashfall cancels multiple flightsKyabram Free Press

The Japan Meteorological Agency emphasized the need for caution, stating, "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." Local officials confirmed that no damage had been reported and that the situation was being closely monitored.

Ashfall warning in Japan as Sakurajima volcano erupts

While the JMA's response has been largely accepted, some local residents expressed concerns about the adequacy of the warning systems and preparedness for such volcanic events. They highlighted the need for improved communication and resources to better handle the fallout from eruptions.

Ashfall warning in Japan as Sakurajima volcano erupts

There are no significant discrepancies in the reports regarding the eruption's impact and the safety measures taken. However, the exact number of flights canceled varies slightly across different sources, with some reporting 30 cancellations while others suggest a broader impact on regional air travel.

Ashfall warning in Japan as Sakurajima volcano erupts

• “An explosive eruption around 12:57am (8:57am PKT) on Sunday at the Minamidake crater sent a plume rising above 4,000m for the first time since October 18 last year,” — Kyodo News

Dawn

• “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,” — Japan Meteorological Agency

The New Zealand Herald

This eruption of Sakurajima serves as a reminder of the ongoing volcanic activity in Japan and the importance of preparedness in the face of natural disasters.

Sakurajima volcano erupts in Japan, sending ash 4,400 meters into the air