The Shinmoedake volcano in Japan&rsquo;s Kirishima mountain range erupted early Sunday, hurling a massive ash column over 3,000 meters into the air and prompting safety warnings across surrounding prefectures.
The dramatic explosion occurred at around 5:23 a.m. local time, straddling the border between Kagoshima and Miyazaki prefectures. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), ash is drifting northeast and may reach as far as Takanabe in Miyazaki Prefecture.
Authorities have issued an eruption alert level of 3, advising people to avoid entering areas within a 3-kilometre radius due to the risk of large volcanic rocks and pyroclastic flows. Small volcanic rocks could fall within 14 kilometres northeast of the crater, the JMA warned.
Moderate ashfall is anticipated in Kobayashi, Takaharu, and parts of Kirishima. Officials are urging residents, especially those downwind, to remain alert as airborne ash and small rocks may travel long distances.
Shinmoedake has been active since June 27, with intermittent eruptions. This latest blast follows its June 22 eruption, the first since 2018, when plumes reached 500 meters above the crater.
Japan, located along the Pacific &ldquo;Ring of Fire,&rdquo; experiences frequent volcanic activity. Just last year, Sakurajima volcano in Kagoshima Prefecture erupted, sending plumes to 3,400 meters.
Emergency teams continue to monitor Shinmoedake closely, with local authorities prepared to escalate warnings if volcanic activity intensifies.

Japan warns residents as powerful Shinmoedake eruption sends ash plume skyward

Shinmoedake Volcano Spews Ash 3km High

Japan warns residents as powerful Shinmoedake eruption sends ash plume skyward

August 10, 2025 | 13:28 IST