Title: Increase in Volcanic Earthquakes in Sakurajima, Southwest Japan – Recent Tremors Reach Magnitude 2, with Past Eruptions Reaching 5,000m Smoke Plume
Date: July 26, 2023
Sakurajima, a volcanic island located in southwest Japan, has experienced an increase in volcanic earthquakes. On the morning of the 26th, an earthquake with a maximum intensity of 2 was recorded. In the past, volcanic eruptions with smoke plumes reaching 5,000 meters have occurred following such seismic activity. The meteorological agency is urging caution and vigilance regarding future developments.
According to the meteorological agency, volcanic earthquakes originating from the southwest side of Sakurajima have been on the rise since around the 23rd of July. On the 26th, at around 10:54 am, an earthquake with a magnitude of 2.6 occurred, resulting in a maximum intensity of 2 in Kagoshima City.
[Number of Volcanic Earthquakes (Preliminary Values)]
– July 23: 14 earthquakes
– July 24: 43 earthquakes
– July 25: 52 earthquakes
– July 26: 106 earthquakes (as of 3 pm)
Instruments such as inclinometers and extensometers installed on the island have not detected any significant changes in ground deformation.
In August 2020, a volcanic eruption occurred at the summit crater of Mount Minamidake, located on the southwest side of Sakurajima, a few days after a slight increase in seismic activity. The eruption produced a smoke plume reaching 5,000 meters, leading to flight cancellations at Kagoshima Airport and causing widespread disruptions.
While the causal relationship between seismic activity and volcanic eruptions on the southwest side of Sakurajima is not yet fully understood, the meteorological agency is closely monitoring the situation and advising the public to pay attention to future updates.
Currently, Sakurajima remains under Level 3 volcanic alert, with restrictions on entry within a 2-kilometer radius of the crater due to the potential hazards of large volcanic rocks and pyroclastic flows. Those on the downwind side should also be cautious of volcanic ash and small volcanic rocks. Additionally, there is a risk of shattered glass due to air blasts accompanying explosions, so please exercise caution.
For the live camera feed of Sakurajima, click here: [Sakurajima Live Camera](https://newsdig.tbs.co.jp/articles/-/280445)
How does the PAA’s monitoring of the situation align with their responsibility to protect the local population
Ogical department is closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of the local population.
The recent surge in volcanic seismic activity in Sakurajima is a cause for concern. Authorities should closely monitor the situation and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of local residents. The potential eruption should be taken seriously, and proper evacuation plans must be put in place to mitigate any potential risks.
This article provides a concise yet informative briefing on the rising volcanic seismic activity in Sakurajima, highlighting the potential of an imminent eruption. It is crucial for residents and authorities to stay alert and prepared in order to mitigate any potential risks.