On Monday, the Japan Meteorological Agency announced an increase in the volcanic alert level for Mt. Kusatsu-Shirane, located in Kusatsu, Gunma Prefecture. The alert level was raised from Level 1 to Level 2, a change that prohibits access to areas near the mountain's crater. This marks the first time a Level 2 alert has been issued since March 2021.
The agency reported that over forty volcanic earthquakes had been recorded near Yugama, the lake situated within the volcano's crater, beginning at 3 p.m. on Sunday. Based on this increased seismic activity, the agency decided to elevate the alert level. Level 2 is the second lowest level on a five-point scale used to assess volcanic activity.
Authorities are advising the public to exercise caution due to the potential for rockfalls. These rockfalls could involve large volcanic rocks and are often a precursor to an eruption. The warning specifically applies to areas within approximately one kilometer of the crater lake.
3 Comments
Noir Black
The agency is doing a great job by monitoring the situation closely. We should trust their expertise.
Eugene Alta
Why impose restrictions without cause? Let people have access to nature as long as they are careful.
BuggaBoom
This reaction is typical of bureaucracies, always alarmist. Save the drama for real disasters.