People in southern Japan experienced a spectacular volcanic eruption this weekend. On Kyushu, the country’s third-largest main island, the Sakurajima volcano spewed a massive ash plume that rose 5,000 meters into the sky (see video above).
The now released slow-motion footage shows the eruption of the volcano, which is located directly opposite the center of the port city of Kagoshima in the eponymous prefecture. Authorities warned in a bulletin of “ballistic impacts from volcanic bombs and pyroclastic flows” that could affect an area about two kilometers from the main crater, the report said.
Sunday’s eruption was Sakurajima’s 23rd this year. The 1,117-meter-high volcano — one of Japan’s most active — regularly spews ash and smoke and is a popular tourist attraction.
Special are the often observed so-called volcanic thunderstorms. The friction of the ash particles builds up electrical voltages, which are then discharged in lightning flashes.
Japan is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a volcanic belt that surrounds the Pacific Ocean on three sides and extends across numerous countries. About two-thirds of all volcanic eruptions and about 90 percent of the world’s earthquakes can be traced to this area.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
