The snow-covered peak of the 2,402-foot (732-meter) Mount Usu erupted today, spewing black smoke and ash and forcing over 15,000 people from their homes. Historically one of Japan's most active volcanoes, Usu last erupted in 1978 after a number of earthquakes which formed a new and smaller volcano by its side. Mudslides triggered by that eruption killed three people in 1978, but so far no...

This website discusses the Volcano Research Center's (VRC) work to improve predictions of volcanic eruptions by conducting research on volcanic processes. Users can find out about Asama, Kirishima, Izu-Oshima, and other VRC volcano observatories. The website features information on many continuing and recent eruptions in Japan. Visitors can view many images of volcanic eruptions and disaster...