Japan Volcano Eruption 2025: A volcano has erupted in Japan’s Kyushu region, leading to speculation that Mt. Fuji may be next. Here’s what experts say about the threat, impact, and preparations underway.
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Japan Volcano Eruption: Is Mount Fuji Next? Here’s What We Know
Japan Volcano Eruption Alert: Could Mt Fuji Be Next?
On July 5, 2025, Japan witnessed a powerful volcanic eruption from Mount Shinmoedake, part of the Kirishima mountain range on Kyushu Island. The event triggered widespread panic and raised a pressing question: Could Mt Fuji be the next to erupt?
The eruption eerily aligned with a prediction made by retired manga artist Ryo Tatsuki, who mentioned July 5 in his 1999 book The Future I Saw. Though meant as speculative fiction, the sudden accuracy of the date led to travel cancellations, viral speculation, and fresh fears about Japan’s volcanic stability—especially Mt. Fuji, the country’s most iconic and active volcano.
What Happened at Mount Shinmoedake?
The eruption occurred without much warning, spewing a thick plume of ash into the sky. In response, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) raised the alert level to 3, urging residents in Miyazaki and Kagoshima prefectures to stay indoors.
Key developments:
- Ashfall blanketed homes, roads, and farms
- Pyroclastic flows and falling rocks were observed within a 2-mile radius
- A magnitude 5.5 earthquake was recorded off the coast of the Tokara Islands just one day prior—intensifying concerns
Is Mt. Fuji Really a Threat?
Mount Fuji is more than a natural wonder—it’s Japan’s national symbol, rising 3,776 meters (12,389 ft) with near-perfect symmetry. However, it’s also an active volcano, with its last major eruption—the Hoei Eruption—taking place in 1707. That eruption:
- Lasted more than 2 weeks
- Scattered ash over modern-day Tokyo
- Created a new crater, altering Fuji’s silhouette
- Caused crop failure, flooding, and famine
What Happens If Mt. Fuji Erupts Again?
Experts warn that Mt. Fuji’s eruption could cause massive damage due to population density and urban infrastructure around the region.
According to Japanese government estimates:
- Up to 1.7 billion cubic meters of volcanic ash could be released
- Nearly 490 million cubic meters could settle in Tokyo and surrounding areas
- Trains would be halted, roads would be impassable, and power outages could cripple cities
- Ash depth over 30 cm (12 inches) could cause wooden rooftops to collapse
- Economic damage could exceed 2.5 trillion yen (~$16.6 billion USD)
The Ryo Tatsuki Prophecy and Public Reaction
Ryo Tatsuki, often dubbed the “modern Baba Vanga,” predicted the July 5 disaster in his book over two decades ago. While he urges readers not to take his dreams literally, the timing of the eruption has led to a noticeable dip in tourism and widespread concern across social media.
While Japan’s seismologists maintain there’s no immediate eruption warning from Mt. Fuji, they continue to closely monitor seismic activity around the region.
Safety Measures: What the Public Should Do
In case of a Mt. Fuji eruption, authorities advise:
- Stay indoors or move to reinforced buildings
- Stock up on at least 2 weeks of food, water, and medical supplies
- Keep up with official alerts, and avoid spreading misinformation
- Avoid unnecessary travel to high-risk areas
Summary: A Wake-Up Call, Not a Panic Button
The Shinmoedake eruption is a stark reminder of Japan’s volatile geology. While Mt. Fuji remains calm for now, scientists and officials agree: preparedness is key.
Japan has over 100 active volcanoes, and though Mt. Fuji hasn’t erupted in over 300 years, its potential to disrupt millions of lives remains very real. Whether or not another eruption is imminent, this event has reignited global focus on Japan’s natural disaster readiness.