Weather Alert: Japan, Sakurajima Volcano Exhibits Increased Activity

Location: Sakurajima (Aira Caldera), Kagoshima City, and surrounding prefectures including Kumamoto and Miyazaki, Japan.

Event: The Sakurajima volcano has shown a significant increase in explosive activity since November 16, 2025, with a large eruption sending an ash plume up to 4,400 meters (approx. 14,400 feet).

• The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) maintains the Volcanic Alert Level at 3(out of 5), which signifies a Restriction on Proximity to the Volcano (Do Not Approach the Volcano).
• The primary danger near the crater is the ejection of large cinder blocks (volcanic rocks), which were observed falling as far as 1.2 kilometers away.

Restricted Area: Entry is strictly prohibited within a 2-kilometer radius of the Minamidake crater.

Actions to Take:

• Do not enter the restricted 2 km radiusaround the Minamidake crater. Respect all warnings and barricades posted by local authorities.
• Be Prepared for Ashfall:Residents and travelers in Kagoshima, Kumamoto, and Miyazaki prefectures should be aware of possible ashfall.
• Wear a mask or coveringover your mouth and nose if you are outdoors during ashfall to minimize respiratory irritation.
• Wear protective eyewear(goggles or glasses) to shield your eyes.
• Drive slowlyas volcanic ash can make roads slick and reduce visibility.
• Stay indoorswith windows and doors closed if heavy ashfall occurs.
• Check Travel Plans:Volcanic ash can disrupt air travel. Check with your airline for the latest flight status, especially if traveling to or from Kagoshima Airport (KOJ).
• Monitor Official Sources:Follow updates from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) and local Kagoshima Prefecture authorities.

Local Resources:

• Emergency Services (Japan):Police: 110 | Fire/Ambulance: 119
• Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) Volcanic Warnings (English):
• https://www.data.jma.go.jp/multi/volcano/index.html?lang=en 
• S. Consulate Fukuoka (Jurisdiction includes Kagoshima):
• Routine Inquiries:81-92-751-9331 (Within Japan: 092-751-9331)

Assistance:

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For emergencies, contact the U.S. Embassy or nearest consulate.

• U.S. Embassy Tokyo
  Telephone: 03-3224-5000
• U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe
  Telephone: 06-6315-5900
• U.S. Consulate Nagoya
  Telephone: 052-581-4501
• U.S. Consulate Fukuoka
  Telephone: 092-751-9331
• U.S. Consulate General Sapporo
  Telephone: 011-641-1115
• U.S. Consulate General Naha
  Telephone: 098-876-4211
• State Department – Consular Affairs
  Telephone: +1 (888) 407-4747