Massive Eruption At Japan’s Sakurajima Volcano Spews 4,400m Ash Cloud, Disrupts Flights | VIDEO

The Sakurajima volcano in Japan’s southwestern Kagoshima Prefecture erupted early Sunday, sending a massive plume of ash and smoke soaring up to 4,400 metres into the sky. According to Kyodo News, the eruption occurred at the Minamidake crater at 12:57 am local time, marking the first time since October 2024 that ash has risen beyond 4,000 metres. 

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) quickly issued an ashfall forecast for several regions, including Kagoshima, Kumamoto, and Miyazaki prefectures, as the volcano continued to release ash following the initial blast. The agency reported that volcanic ash drifted northeast and warned residents of potential disruptions throughout Sunday.

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🇯🇵🌋 Powerful #eruption of #Sakurajima volcano on #Kyushu island, #Japan pic.twitter.com/h2jTiRMkz2

— Indian Observer (@ag_Journalist) November 16, 2025

No Injuries Reported But Volcanic Rocks Ejected

Authorities confirmed that there were no reports of injuries or structural damage. However, large volcanic rocks were thrown as far as the volcano’s fifth station, highlighting the eruption’s strength. No pyroclastic flows were detected during the event.

The volcanic alert level remains at Level 3 on a five-point scale, restricting access around the crater and urging residents to remain cautious. Local media reported that around 30 flights to and from Kagoshima Airport were cancelled due to ash accumulation and reduced visibility. Airlines are continuing to monitor conditions as cleanup efforts proceed.

A Volcano With a Fiery History

Sakurajima is one of Japan’s most active volcanoes and is closely monitored due to its frequent eruptions. Once an island, it became connected to Kyushu’s Osumi Peninsula after a major lava flow in 1914. Eruptions of various intensities occur regularly, with one of the largest recent events taking place in 2019, when the volcano spewed ash 5.5 km high.

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