Japan's Shinmoedake volcano, a prominent peak within the Kirishima mountain range, erupted on August 10, 2025, at approximately 5:23 a.m. local time. The eruption produced an ash plume that ascended to an altitude exceeding 3,000 meters (approximately 9,842 feet) above the crater. This event continues the heightened volcanic activity observed in the region since late June.
In response to the increased unrest, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) raised the volcanic alert level to 3, implementing restrictions on access to areas near the crater. The substantial ash cloud is currently drifting northeast, potentially affecting communities such as Takanabe in Miyazaki Prefecture. The JMA has issued advisories for moderate ashfall in Kobayashi, Takaharu (Miyazaki Prefecture), and Kirishima (Kagoshima Prefecture). There is also a risk of smaller volcanic rocks falling within a 14-kilometer radius northeast of the crater. Authorities are urging vigilance within a 3-kilometer radius of the crater due to the potential for falling volcanic rocks, and heightened caution within a 2-kilometer radius due to the risk of pyroclastic flows. The JMA is continuously monitoring the situation and providing updates.
Shinmoedake has a history of significant volcanic activity, with previous eruptions recorded in 2011, 2017, and 2018, which also led to similar alert levels and advisories. The JMA's alert system, ranging from Level 1 (normal) to Level 5 (evacuation), guides public safety measures. The current Level 3 indicates that while evacuation is not mandated, the public should remain prepared for potential hazards and adhere to safety guidelines.