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Tuesday, 16th June 2015
In General Japan News,
Light ashfall detected, as Japan's most active volcano erupts
A small scattering of ash has been detected on the Japanese island of Honshu, suggesting that its most active volcano has erupted. No clear view of Mount Asama can be seen at present, as it is shrouded in mist today (June 16th), but the presence of ash points to renewed activity.
There have been no reports of any injuries or damage as a result of the eruption, but it could signify further instances in the future. Japan is experiencing heightened activity at present, but the situation is being closely monitored.
Located on the Pacific Rim of Fire and home to no fewer than 110 active volcanoes, the country is well-versed in safety procedures. The most volatile peaks, which number 47, are monitored 24 hours a day to ensure evacuation plans can be carried out when necessary.
The 2,570-metre tall Mount Asama is situated just 90 miles from Tokyo on Japan's main island. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said no smoke could be seen, due to the clouds, but light ashfall 2.5 miles away and higher readings from temperature sensors suggested an eruption had occurred.
A warning has been in place around Asama since last week, when earth tremors and the detection of volcanic gases alerted JMA to the mountain's potential activity. People have therefore been advised to stay at least 1.2 miles from the peak's summit since then.
Last month, Mount Shindake on the island of Kuchinoerabu erupted and the alert level was raised to five. While nobody was injured in the incident, the residents of the island needed to be evacuated to other parts of the archipelago. They have not yet been able to return, but are safe from any danger posed by the natural phenomenon.
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