Geologic Background:
Sakura-jima volcano, located within the Aira
Caldera, began to grow about 13,000 years ago. The large
caldera forms the bay at the south tip of Kyushu. This
island in the north half of Kagoshima Bay was joined to
the Osumi Peninsula during an eruption in 1914.
Sakura-jima is one of the most active volcanoes in the
world.
Historic Activity:
- Its first historical eruptio was is 708 A.D. and the
current eruption began in 1955. At least 45 eruptions
from 0708 to 1955.
- Frequent historical eruptions have deposited ash on
Kagoshima, located 7 km west of the summit, across
Kagoshima Bay.
Recent Activity:
- Current eruption began in 1955.
- On an average over 150 explosions per year (1986--216
explosions; 1987--106 explosions; 1988--155 explosions;
1989--44 explosions; 1990--119 explosions; 1991--295
explosions; 1992--165 explosions; 1993--91 explosions;
1994--148 explosions; 1995--226 explosions; 1996--161
explosions; 1997--35 explosions).
- Many of the explosions are accompanied by tephra
falls which cause damage and injuries up to 3 miles from
crater.
- Frequent explosive eruptions from Oct. 1999 to Oct.
2000.
Data Sources:
- Smithsonian's SEAN Bulletin (V. 8, No. 2 to V. 14,
No. 12)
- Global Volcanism Network (V. 15, No. 1 to V. 25, No.
10).
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