Aira Volcano (Sakurajima) Sustains Eruptive Activity, JMA Issues Level 3 Alert

Ongoing Eruptive Activity at Minamidake Crater

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported that the Aira volcano, commonly known as Sakurajima, sustained its eruptive activity on December 4, 2025. The volcano, located in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, exhibited multiple explosions from its Minamidake Crater. These events were accompanied by the emission of ash plumes and the forceful ejection of large volcanic bombs.

Details of Volcanic Ejections and Plumes

According to the JMA's observations, large volcanic bombs were ejected to distances ranging from 600 to 900 meters and 500 to 700 meters away from the Minamidake Crater. Ash plumes were also a prominent feature of the eruption. On December 3, 2025, ash plumes rose to a maximum height of 1,100 meters (3,609 feet) above the vent. Earlier activity in late November also saw ash plumes reaching up to 3 kilometers above the summit, with notable ashfall reported in Kagoshima City, approximately 10 kilometers to the west.

Alert Level Maintained and Safety Precautions

The JMA has kept the volcanic alert level for Aira at 'Level 3 - Restriction on proximity to the volcano' on its five-level scale. This alert level advises the public to refrain from approaching the volcano and to exercise caution within a 2-kilometer radius of both the Minamidake and Showa craters. Sakurajima is recognized as one of Japan's most active volcanoes, with frequent eruptions occurring regularly.

Historical Context of Sakurajima's Activity

Sakurajima, part of the larger Aira caldera, has a long history of significant eruptions. Its current form was largely shaped by a major explosive and effusive eruption in 1914, which connected the island to the Osumi Peninsula. The volcano's persistent activity since the 8th century has frequently resulted in ashfall over Kagoshima City. The ongoing eruptions underscore the dynamic geological nature of the region and the continuous monitoring efforts by the Japan Meteorological Agency.