Sakurajima volcano spews blast of lava in latest eruption

April 8, 2011 – JAPAN – Lightning and other atmospheric phenomena have been seen around Sakurajima volcano during its eruptions. Japan’s Sakurajima volcano produced colorful fountains of lava and spewed ash into the skies of southern Japan near the city of Kagoshima. The Japan Meteorological Agency alerted nearby residents and aviation interests that the volcano was “very dangerous.” Sakurajima has produced strong activity at various times throughout recorded Japanese history. Its current eruptive phase began in 1955. More than 7,300 explosive eruptions have been reported over the past 45 years. –Earth Week  

Phillippines: Restive Taal Volcano in Batangas showed signs of heightened activity anew in the last 24 hours, as state seismologists recorded at least nine volcanic quakes there during that period. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology also recorded weak steaming activity at the thermal area in the Main Crater Lake. “Phivolcs reiterates Alert Level 1 and its recommendation over Taal Volcano. At present, no imminent eruption is indicated. However, the public is advised to strictly observe some safety precautions. Phivolcs reminds the general public that the Main Crater should remain strictly off-limits because sudden hazardous steam-driven explosions may occur and high concentrations of toxic gases may accumulate,” it said in its Friday bulletin. Also, it noted water temperature in the area slightly increased from 30 degrees Celsius to 30.5 degrees, although the water has become slightly less acidic. –GMA News