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Sakurajima volcano in Kagoshima, Kyushu, Japan, erupted suddenly at 18:19 local time on the 14th, sending volcanic ash and smoke up to 4500 meters high. A passenger on a flight over Kagoshima captured the dramatic eruption from the plane, providing breathtaking visuals.
The passenger recounted that the pilot made an urgent announcement, “Sakurajima volcano has erupted.” Looking out the window, the passenger managed to photograph the massive ash plume rising next to the aircraft’s wing. Despite the eruption, the plane did not experience significant turbulence, and the passengers remained calm. The current volcanic alert level for Sakurajima is maintained at Level 3, “No Entry to the Mountain,” with local authorities urging residents to stay vigilant against volcanic stones.
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that volcanic activity at Sakurajima is ongoing, with three eruptions occurring from the crater, one of which was explosive. The explosive eruption at 18:19 on the 14th sent the ash plume to a height of 4500 meters. This is the first time since 18:33 on February 14, 2024, that an ash plume from the same crater has exceeded 4000 meters above the crater rim. Additionally, high-sensitivity nighttime monitors have observed the phenomenon of flames reflecting from the same crater.
The eruption captured by the passenger provides a rare and striking view of one of Japan’s most active volcanoes in action, highlighting the natural power and beauty of volcanic activity. The images have garnered widespread attention and serve as a reminder of the constant volcanic threat in the region.