Japan's Sakurajima Volcano Erupts Twice Midnight, Shoots Ash Nearly 4.5 km High

Last Updated:November 18, 2025, 22:22 IST

The violent outburst, which originated from the Minamidake crater, triggered widespread ashfall alerts across several prefectures, including Kagoshima, Kumamoto, and Miyazaki

Japan’s Sakurajima volcano

Japan’s Sakurajima volcano in southwest Kyushu erupted with exceptional force in the early hours of November 16, sending a towering column of ash and smoke nearly 4,400 meters into the sky.

The violent outburst, which originated from the Minamidake crater, triggered widespread ashfall alerts across several prefectures, including Kagoshima, Kumamoto, and Miyazaki.

The first major explosion occurred around 12:57 am JST, followed by another at 2:28 am, the second producing a plume rising roughly 3,700 meters.

This is the first time in more than a year that Sakurajima’s plume has exceeded the 4-kilometer mark, signaling one of the most powerful eruptions the volcano has recorded in recent months.

Volcanic debris was blasted up to 1.2 kilometers from the crater, underscoring the intensity of the event.

Despite the scale of the explosions, authorities reported no injuries and no pyroclastic flows, which are among the most dangerous volcanic phenomena.

Even so, the Japan Meteorological Agency has kept the alert level at three on its five-tier scale, restricting entry around the crater due to ongoing risks.

Sakurajima, one of Japan’s most active volcanoes, has long shaped the Kyushu landscape. Its frequent eruptions and historic lava flows famously connected the once-isolated island to the Osumi Peninsula.

Because of its close proximity to Kagoshima city, residents remain vigilant during heightened activity. The latest eruption also forced temporary flight cancellations at Kagoshima Airport as ash clouds drifted into flight paths.

Authorities have urged communities in affected areas to remain alert for further ashfall, use protective gear when outdoors, and continue monitoring updates as the volcano remains active and unpredictable.

News world Japan's Sakurajima Volcano Erupts Twice Midnight, Shoots Ash Nearly 4.5 km High

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