Volcano emergency planning at Sakurajima volcano

Abstract At Sakurajima volcano in 1914, a large-scale eruption (VEI 4) occurred on the flanks of the volcano and was followed by effusion of 1.34 km3 of lava. Vulcanian eruptions have occurred frequently at the summit craters since 1955. Increased magma volume beneath the Aira caldera, north of Sakurajima, suggests the recurrence of a large-scale eruption. The Kagoshima Prefecture government and municipalities around Sakurajima volcano formulate disaster prevention plans for responding to a volcanic disaster. Volcanic disaster measures are composed of (1) enhancement of preparedness, (2) disaster emergency measures, (3) recovery, (4) long-term evacuation, and (5) response to a massive tephra fall. Early evacuation from the volcano by boat as a major role is planned in Sakurajima disaster emergency measures prior to pyroclastic flow, tsunami, and meteorological condition that could inhibit the evacuation. The plan includes the removal of massive tephra fall deposits from urban areas to assure quick recovery of city services and occupancy.