Week 5: Volcanoes

 Volcanoes

The last major eruption in Japan was the September 27, 2014, Mount Ontake eruption. The eruption resulted in 63 deaths (Wikipedia). 

Japan is home to 111 active volcanoes, and the island nation averages 15 volcanic events, which also include eruptions, yearly (Japan Meteorological Agency). 

Of those 111 active volcanoes, the JMA monitors 50 which are active. The JMA monitors these volcanoes by:

• Deploying seismographs and other observation instruments to the areas near the volcanoes (JMA).
• Send observation teams on regular patrols (JMA).

When anomalies are detected, the JMA increases its observation activities and publishes them (JMA).

To warn residents of a volcanic eruption, Japan has volcanic warnings and volcanic forecasts if a volcanic warning is not issued. The warning system has 5 levels. Japan also has eruption notices, which "provide information on volcanic eruptions occurring after a period of inactivity or those on an unprecedented scale that may lead to a change in the volcanic alert level" (JMA). Japan also has a volcanic ash fall forecast.