Japan: Volcanic eruption injures at least 15 in Gunma prefecture Jan. 23

Event

On Tuesday, January 23, at approximately 10:00 (local time) Mount Kusatsu-Shirane (Gunma prefecture) entered into an eruptive phase, spewing ash and rocks on the volcano's slopes. According to local sources, the recorded explosions triggered an avalanche which hit a nearby ski resort. At least 15 people were reportedly injured in the eruption and subsequent avalanche. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) increased the alert level for Mount Kusatsu-Shirane to a "do not approach the volcano" Level 3 warning (on a scale from 1 to 5).

Context

Mount Kusatsu-Shirane, located in Kusatsu, Gunma prefecture is an active volcano which last erupted in 1983. Japan lies on the "Ring of Fire," a horseshoe-shaped band of fault lines and volcanoes around the edges of the Pacific Ocean, home to more than 100 active volcanoes. Mount Ontake in central Japan erupted unexpectedly in 2014, killing 63 people in the worst volcanic disaster in Japan in nearly 90 years.

Advice

All those present in Gunma prefecture are advised to avoid affected areas. Individuals already present in these areas are advised to follow all instructions issued by local authorities; be prepared to leave immediately if an evacuation order is given. Monitor any developments to the situation.