Multiple eruptions at Sakurajima volcano disrupt flights at Kagoshima Airport, Japan

Sakurajima volcano in Kagoshima Prefecture produced several explosive eruptions at the Minamidake crater early on Sunday, November 16 (JST).

The maximum cloud height was estimated near 5 500 m (18 000 feet) above sea level. The activity triggered ashfall forecasts for Kagoshima City and parts of neighboring Miyazaki Prefecture, prompting operational measures at Kagoshima Airport.

The first explosion was recorded near 00:57 JST on November 16 (15:57 UTC on November 15), followed by additional events later in the early morning hours. Ash drifted mainly toward the northeast, producing intermittent surface deposits downwind.

Airlines canceled about 30 flights on November 16 as airport operators conducted runway sweeping and visibility checks, and carriers performed post-ash inspections such as engine borescope examinations. Disruptions and precautionary checks continued into November 17, with further cancellations and delays reported.

By 05:50 UTC on November 16 (14:50 JST), satellite analysis indicated dissipation of the primary ash cloud, with subsequent observed and forecast tops near 3 700 m (12 000 feet) above sea level. Even with upper-air ash decreasing, residual low-level ashfall around the airport area required ground operations to proceed at reduced tempo.

Authorities maintained Alert Level 3, with access restrictions in the vicinity of the active crater. Residents and visitors are advised to avoid areas near the summit crater due to the risk of ballistic ejecta and sudden explosive bursts.

Short-lived increases in eruptive output are common at Sakurajima and can rapidly elevate ash to several kilometers above sea level, producing localized ashfall that affects transportation, utilities, and outdoor activities.

Sakurajima forms part of the Aira caldera system and exhibits frequent explosive activity at Minamidake. Typical local impacts during ashfall episodes include reduced road traction, short-term declines in air quality, and episodic interruptions to ferry, rail, and air services.

Teo Blašković

I'm a dedicated researcher, journalist, and editor at The Watchers. With over 20 years of experience in the media industry, I specialize in hard science news, focusing on extreme weather, seismic and volcanic activity, space weather, and astronomy, including near-Earth objects and planetary defense strategies. You can reach me at teo /at/ watchers.news.

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