Residents and travelers in Kagoshima City and the surrounding prefectures of Kumamoto and Miyazaki are being advised to exercise caution following increased volcanic activity at Sakurajima. Since November 16, 2025, the volcano has experienced a notable rise in explosive eruptions, with one recent event sending an ash plume as high as 4,400 meters (approximately 14,400 feet).
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has kept the Volcanic Alert Level at 3 out of 5. This level means that there is a restriction on approaching the volcano, and entry within a two-kilometer radius of the Minamidake crater is strictly prohibited. The main danger near the crater remains the ejection of large volcanic rocks, which have been observed landing up to 1.2 kilometers away.
Authorities have outlined several precautions for those in affected areas. People are urged not to enter the restricted area around Minamidake crater and to follow all posted warnings from local officials. Residents should prepare for possible ashfall by wearing masks or coverings over their mouth and nose while outdoors, using protective eyewear, driving slowly due to reduced visibility and slick roads caused by ash, and staying indoors with windows and doors closed during heavy ashfall.
Travelers are reminded that volcanic ash can disrupt air travel operations. Those flying to or from Kagoshima Airport (KOJ) are encouraged to check with their airlines for current flight information.
Updates on volcanic activity can be monitored through official sources such as the Japan Meteorological Agency’s English-language Volcanic Warnings website. Emergency services can be reached in Japan by dialing 110 for police or 119 for fire or ambulance assistance.
For U.S. citizens needing assistance, contact information is provided for the U.S. Embassy Tokyo as well as consulates throughout Japan including Osaka-Kobe, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Sapporo, and Naha. The State Department’s Consular Affairs office is also available for inquiries.
"Do not enter the restricted 2 km radius around 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 covering over 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 slowly as volcanic ash can make roads slick and reduce visibility."
"Stay indoors with 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."