Sakurajima Volcano Eruption Disrupts Southern Japan Transportation and Tourism
On April 11, 2026, Sakurajima volcano erupted, sending ash plumes up to 3,400 meters high and blanketing Kagoshima Prefecture. The eruption disrupted transportation, grounding flights at Kagoshima Airport and causing road closures in areas like Tarumizu and Kanoya. The Japan Meteorological Agency raised the volcanic alert level to Level 3, advising residents to stay away from the volcano. Evacuation protocols were activated in high-risk zones, and emergency teams are assisting affected communities. Heavy ashfall has impacted homes and agriculture, particularly citrus fruits and rice. Cleanup efforts are expected to take weeks, and local tourist attractions have been temporarily closed, affecting businesses reliant on tourism in the Kyushu region.
Published 2 days ago • 13 Apr 2026, 01:31 AM IST