Volcanic Activity Intensifies at Mt. Aso in Japan... Alert Level Raised with 'Crater Area Restrictions'

Elevation from Alert Level 1 to Level 2

Kyodo News reported on the 15th that the eruption alert level of Mount Aso, a large volcano in Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan, has been raised from level 1 to level 2.

According to the report, the Japan Meteorological Agency stated that from 9 a.m. that day, the amplitude of minor movements of Mount Aso remained slightly elevated. During an investigation conducted on the 9th, the sulfur dioxide emission was measured at 1,600 tons per day.

Accordingly, the Japan Meteorological Agency raised the eruption alert level of Mount Aso from level 1, which means "be aware that it is an active volcano," to level 2, indicating "restrictions around the crater." Japan's eruption alert levels are divided into five stages.

The Japan Meteorological Agency particularly warned of the possibility of an eruption affecting an area of approximately 1 km around Nakadake Crater No. 1, expressing concerns about major explosions or the occurrence of pyroclastic flows.