Japan has issued an urgent travel and transport alert after a powerful eruption at the Sakurajima volcano in Kagoshima Prefecture in Southern Japan.
The April 11 eruption caused massive ash clouds and falling volcanic debris, resulting in widespread disruption across the region. Ash plumes, rising up to 3,400 meters high, forced the grounding of flights, road closures, and safety warnings for residents.
Domestic and international flights at Kagoshima Airport and nearby airports were quickly grounded or delayed due to the volcanic ash and the potential hazards to aircraft. The eruption also forced authorities to close several roads, particularly in Kagoshima City and neighboring areas like Tarumizu and Kanoya, due to the accumulation of ash on roadways. Emergency services are working to clear key routes for essential transport, including medical and emergency vehicles, but others were advised to avoid non-essential journeys.
IAM Member Impact: The eruption is over 1,000 kms from the Tokyo-Yokahama region, and minimal disruption is expected to the main areas of international moving activity.
Source: Travel and Tour World