Key Facts
• August 28: Shinmoedake volcano erupted at 4:53 AM, ash plume reached 5,500 meters.
• Second eruption occurred at 5:23 AM, ash plume reached 4,500 meters.
• Eruption continues as of 11:00 AM, no large volcanic rocks or pyroclastic flows observed.
• Ash plume moving south; heavy ashfall expected in Kirishima and Kobayashi, moderate in Soo.
• Volcanic ash and small rocks may travel far due to wind; caution advised.
• Previous eruption on July 3 sent ash plume 5,000 meters high; Level 3 alert remains.
• Meteorological agency warns of large volcanic rocks within 3 km of the crater.
Summary
On August 28, Shinmoedake volcano in the Kirishima mountain range erupted, sending an ash plume 5,500 meters into the sky at 4:53 AM, followed by another eruption at 5:23 AM with a 4,500-meter plume. The eruption continues as of 11:00 AM, with no reports of large volcanic rocks or pyroclastic flows. The ash plume is moving south, with heavy ashfall expected in Kirishima and Kobayashi, and moderate ashfall in Soo. Authorities caution against volcanic ash and small rocks being carried by wind. The volcano remains under a Level 3 alert, restricting access within 3 kilometers of the crater. The meteorological agency advises vigilance as volcanic activity remains high.
