20 Oct 2021 | 05:50 AM UTC
Japan: Officials increase warning level at Mount Aso volcano in Kumamoto Prefecture as of Oct. 20
Officials increase warning level at Mount Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, Oct. 20. Exclusion zone in place; no initial reports of damage.
Event
Officials have raised the warning for Mount Aso to Level 3 as of Oct. 20 due to increased activity at the volcano. An eruption occurred 11:43 Oct. 20 at the Nakadake crater on Mount Aso, with a pyroclastic flow reaching up to 1.3 km (0.8 miles) west of the crater. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has warned of possible further eruptions at the Nakadake crater and potential pyroclastic flows within 2 km (1.2 miles) of the crater. Authorities are also advising residents to remain vigilant for volcanic ash and gases on the leeward side of the crater. Prevailing winds are blowing the volcanic ash southeastward. In Kumamoto Prefecture, authorities forecast that a large amount of ashfall is likely over Aso City, Minamiaso Village, and Takamori Town, while a slightly lesser amount of ashfall is likely over Yamato Town. Small amounts of ashfall are also forecast over Bungo-Ono and Saeki cities in Oita Prefecture, and Nobeoka City and Gokase, Hinokage, and Takachiho towns in Miyazaki Prefecture.
As part of Level 3 measures, officials have created a 2-km (1.2-mile) exclusion zone around the crater and have blocked the mountain trail up Mount Aso.
As of early Oct. 20, Kumamoto Airport (KMJ) and the Minami Aso Railway are operating normally. An eruption could cause localized transport disruptions; flight delays could occur at Kumamoto Airport (KMJ) if there is a significant ash plume. Ground transport disruptions could also occur. Authorities could suspend or delay rail service. Falling ash could cause slick driving conditions on nearby roads and reduced visibility, leading to localized traffic disruptions.
Advice
Heed the advice of local authorities and obey restrictions around the volcano. If larger eruptions occur, confirm flight schedules, especially at KMJ. Drive cautiously, as roads may be slippery from volcanic ash. If operating in areas affected by an ash cloud, consider remaining indoors when possible. Individuals who must be outdoors should use face masks and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation. Volcanic ash and gases can cause eye irritation and respiratory problems. Do not rub irritated eyes; flush them with water. Seek medical attention if you have trouble breathing.
