Sakurajima Volcano
Why in news?
Recently, Japan’s Sakurajima volcano erupted multiple times and sent a plume of smoke and ash as high as 4.4 kilometres into the air.
Key facts about Sakurajima Volcano
Location and Type
- Sakurajima is a stratovolcano located in Kagoshima Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan, standing 1,117 meters tall with an area of about 80 km² and a circumference of approximately 52 km.​
Structure and Peaks
- The volcano has three main peaks: Kita-dake (north), Naka-dake (central), and Minami-dake (south). Minami-dake is the currently active summit.​
- The lava flows from the 1914 eruption connected Sakurajima, formerly an island, to the Ōsumi Peninsula, turning it into a peninsula.​
Hazards and Monitoring
- Eruptions are typically explosive, producing ash, pyroclastic flows, volcanic bombs, and poisonous gases. The lava is andesitic, making it thick and gas-rich.​
- The Japan Meteorological Agency closely monitors Sakurajima and issues eruption alerts; a Level5 (highest) alert was issued in July 2022 after a powerful eruption.​
Significance
- Sakurajima is a symbol of Kagoshima Prefecture and is one of the world's most studied active volcanoes due to its accessibility and frequent activity.​
- Its eruptions have shaped the local environment and influenced regional culture and disaster preparedness.​
