The city of Tarumizu in Kagoshima Prefecture lies near Sakurajima, an active stratovolcano formed from layers of ash and lava. Following an evaluation of 111 active volcanoes in Japan, a research committee pinpointed eight volcanoes for closer scrutiny based on various factors. These factors include recent eruptions, seismic activity, and tectonic movements, with the goal of enhancing volcanic research and understanding from a scientific standpoint.
Some of the selected volcanoes, like Iwoto island, Sakurajima, Satsuma-Iwojima, and Suwanosejima islands, were highlighted due to their eruption history in the past year. Mount Yakedake, Mount Iwatesan, and Kuchinoerabujima island were also included in the list of volcanoes needing further investigation. Even Mount Hachimantai, despite its seemingly calm appearance, was deemed necessary for evaluation by the committee, as they found the current understanding of its status insufficient.
The committee, led by Hiroshi Shimizu, a professor emeritus at Kyushu University, plans to conduct additional investigations and determine the key observation points for the coming year. While Mount Asamayama is believed to have a potential for small eruptions, it was not prioritized over other volcanoes on the list. The tragic eruption of Mount Ontakesan ten years ago, which resulted in numerous deaths and missing individuals, served as a catalyst for enhancing public awareness and preparedness for volcanic activity. Subsequently, a unified system for volcanic research was established at the national level, along with the establishment of a government headquarters and committee under the science and technology ministry to bolster volcano disaster prevention efforts in Japan.