15 Aug 2018 | 03:00 AM UTC
Japan: Volcanic warning issued for Kuchinoerabujima August 15
Authorities issued second-highest volcanic warning for the southern island of Kuchinoerabujima August 15; residents warned to prepare to evacuate
Event
The Japanese Meteorological Agency issued a Level 4 (second-highest) volcanic warning for the island of Kuchinoerabujima on Wednesday, August 15. Officials warned residents to be prepared to evacuate if the Shindake volcano beings to erupt. The warning level was changed from 2 to 4 after seismic activity and sulfur emissions increased on the island.
Context
The Shindake volcano erupted in 2015, forcing all 157 residents of Kuchinoerabujima to temporarily evacuate the island. Kuchinoerabujima is located approximately 1000 km (621 mi) southwest of Tokyo. Japan has 110 active volcanoes.
Advice
Individuals present in the area are advised to adhere to all advice and instructions issued by local authorities.
