Mount Shinmoe, located on the southwestern main island of Kyushu, erupted early Thursday morning, sending a massive plume of ash 5,500 meters above the crater, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported.

The eruption, which occurred at 4:53 a.m. local time, propelled volcanic material 5,000 meters above the volcano’s peak, marking the first time since July 3 that Shinmoe has reached such a height, according to the agency.

JMA maintained a level 3 alert on its five-level scale, urging the public to avoid approaching the crater in both Miyazaki and Kagoshima prefectures, which straddle the volcano.

Mount Shinmoe is one of 50 active volcanoes in Japan under constant monitoring. It initially erupted on June 22, its first activity since June 2018, and has continued intermittent eruptions through the summer.

Authorities continue to monitor the volcano closely for any changes in activity and have warned residents and visitors to stay clear of the area for safety. (ILKHA)