Sakurajima Volcano Eruption

Sakurajima, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, erupted on April 11, sending massive plumes of ash high into the atmosphere. The eruption followed a relatively quiet period of about four months at the volcano, located in Kagoshima Prefecture on the island of Kyushu.

Sakurajima is a classic stratovolcano, also known as a composite volcano, characterized by its steep, cone-shaped structure formed through alternating layers of viscous lava, ash, and rock debris. Such volcanoes are typically found at subduction zones and are known for their highly explosive eruptions due to gas-rich, sticky magma.

Since its first recorded eruption in A.D. 708, Sakurajima has remained almost continuously active. Most of its eruptions are Strombolian in nature—moderate, periodic explosions that usually affect the summit region.

Types of Volcanoes: A Quick Comparison

• Stratovolcanoes (Composite Volcanoes):
  • Steep-sided and conical
  • Built from viscous lava (commonly andesite)
  • Prone to explosive eruptions due to trapped gases
• Shield Volcanoes:
  • Broad with gentle slopes
  • Formed by low-viscosity, fluid basaltic lava
  • Lava flows spread over large distances

Prominent examples of shield volcanoes include Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, which are among the largest volcanoes on Earth, rising over 9 km from the ocean floor around the island of Hawaii.

Source: TH & BGS