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Volcano Eruption Disrupts Travel in Japan

July 31, 2022 • 3:04 pm CDT
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(Vax-Before-Travel News)

When the Sakurajima volcano in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, erupted on July 23, 2022, the local Meteorological Agency raised the alert level to its highest degree (#5).

Volcanic stones fell up to 2.5 kilometers from the volcano, and plums streamed high in the sky.

And the local government immediately called for an evacuation of residents within 3 kilometers of the volcano.

To notify international travelers of this event, the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Japan published a message to U.S. citizens on July 25, 2022, advising them to monitor local media and the Japan Meteorological Agency website for official orders and precautions. 

Additionally, the U.S. CDC issued a Warning - Level 3, Avoid Nonessential Travel, that stated 'is an ongoing risk of further volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and toxic explosions.'

'Serious health concerns after a volcanic eruption include respiratory illnesses, suffocation, burns, injuries from ashfall and collapsed structures, infectious diseases, and vehicle accidents related to the conditions caused by ash.'

'If you feel sick during or after travel, seek medical care immediately.'

'And tell your healthcare provider about your trip, including contact with volcanic ash.'

And, 'Travelers should avoid all nonessential travel to Kagoshima prefecture. If you must, obey all instructions from local authorities.'

Furthermore, before visiting this area, the U.S. Department of State suggested joining the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive security updates and information about emergency assistance, if needed.

Earlier this year, on April 18, 2022, the CDC issued a Level 3 Alert that stated, 'Make sure you are vaccinated and up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines before traveling to Japan.'

'If you are not up to date with COVID-19 vaccines, avoid travel to Japan.'

Since then, Japan has been experiencing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases.

Note: These government announcements were manually curated for travelers.

Our Trust Standards: Medical Advisory Committee