The Sakurajima volcano, located on the island of Kyushu, in southwestern Japan, recorded multiple eruptions in the early hours of this Sunday (16). The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) confirmed three main explosions, with the column of ash and smoke reaching 4.4 kilometers high. The event occurred around 1 am local time, equivalent to 1 pm on Saturday in Brasília, and led to the cancellation of around 30 flights at Kagoshima Airport.
There were no reports of casualties or damage to nearby structures. Local authorities monitor the spread of ash, which heads towards the northeast. This was the first eruption greater than 4 kilometers in height in almost 13 months, according to data from the Kyodo agency.
Volcanic activity directly affected air traffic in the region. Passengers faced delays and route reallocations. JMA has issued warnings for possible material falls in urban areas.
Details of explosions at Sakurajima
The first eruption began at 1 am local time, with the ejection of volcanic material visible from kilometers away. Two subsequent explosions occurred at 2:30 am and 8:50 am, raising the column to 3.7 km and 2.5 km respectively. JMA experts classified the event as moderate in intensity, but sufficient to impact aviation.
Sakurajima is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area of high seismic and volcanic activity. By 2025, the volcano has already accumulated 302 eruptions, including 148 explosive ones, which reinforces the need for constant vigilance.
Authorities have recommended the use of masks and umbrellas in Kagoshima to protect against fine ash. 24-hour monitoring prevents major surprises.
Impact on Kagoshima Airport
Around 30 flights were suspended at Kagoshima Airport due to reduced visibility caused by the ash. Air operators such as Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways confirmed the interruptions, prioritizing passenger safety.
- Domestic flights from Tokyo and Osaka suffered the longest delays.
- International routes to Seoul and Busan also faced cancellations.
- Ground teams carried out emergency cleaning of the runways.
The recovery of operations depends on the dispersion of volcanic material. As of midday local time, no flights had fully resumed.
Passengers received assistance with refunds and alternative accommodation. The airport management issued announcements via apps for real-time updates.
Volcano activity history
Sakurajima forms part of the Aira Caldera, created 22,000 years ago by a mega-eruption that dispersed debris 1,000 km away. 13 thousand years oldof existence, the current cone records regular events since the 20th century.
In 1914, an eruption connected the island to the mainland by lava flow, altering the local geography. The one in 2019 raised ash to 5.5 km, the recent record.
- More than 1,000 annual eruptions on average since 1955.
- Seismic monitoring accurately detects previous tremors.
- Investments in barriers protect tea plantations in the region.
Geological studies indicate that the instability of the Philippine plate contributes to the frequency of episodes.
Monitoring and response measures
JMA operates radar stations and seismometers around Sakurajima for early warning. Real-time data is shared with neighboring municipalities, allowing for rapid evacuations if necessary.
In Miyazaki Prefecture, teams prepared shelters for possible pyroclastic flows. The dispersion of ash followed predicted patterns, with winds of up to 20 km/h influencing the trajectory.
The central government allocated resources for post-eruption analysis, focusing on air quality. Homes within a 2km radius maintain contingency plans updated annually.
Effects in the Kyushu region
Fine ash has fallen in Kagoshima since dawn, covering vehicles and streets. Municipal cleaning teams worked on main roads toavoid obstructions in road traffic.
Local farmers have paused rice harvests due to the risk of soil contamination. Miyazaki Prefecture reported light deposits, with no significant disruptions to essential services.
- Schools suspended external activities in 15 districts.
- Hospitals have increased oxygen stocks for respiratory cases.
- Tourism in the volcanic area saw a 20% reduction in guided tours.
The regional economy, dependent on agricultural exports, estimates initial losses at a few hundred thousand yen.
Preparations for future eruptions
Japan invests in forecasting technologies, such as drones for gas mapping. Sakurajima serves as a global model for managing active volcanic risks.
Annual training involves 50,000 residents in simulations. Mobile apps send personalized location-based notifications.
Authorities plan inspections of critical infrastructure, such as bridges and power lines, in the coming days. Collaboration with international agencies strengthens response protocols.