Japan: Shinmoedake volcano eruption continues March 7 /update 1

Event

Japan’s Shinmoedake volcano, located on Kyushu island, continued to spew ash and smoke into the sky on Wednesday, March 6. According to local sources, smoke clouds emitted by the volcano reached 3000 m (9800 ft). Multiple flight disruptions (delays and cancelations) continued to be reported at Kagoshima Airport (KOJ) on Wednesday.

Context

Shinmoedake has been erupting since March 1. Japan has 110 active volcanoes and constantly monitors 47 of them. In September 2014, 63 people were killed on Mount Ontake, the worst volcanic toll in Japan for nearly 90 years.

Advice

Individuals present in or intending to travel to the affected area are advised to monitor the situation, confirm travel reservations, follow any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and wear respiratory masks and covering clothing to protect skin from abrasive ash.