Volcanic Explosion Sends Massive Ash Plume 3500 Meters Into Sky

An explosive eruption occurred at Sakurajima volcano at 16:15 on May 8, 2026 (Japan Standard Time), producing a large ash plume that rose to approximately 3,500 meters above the crater.

The event was recorded as the ninth explosive eruption of 2026.

The explosion generated a strong plume of smoke and volcanic ash extending high above the crater, indicating a significant eruptive event at the volcano.