Tokyo: A massive underwater volcano near southern Japan has begun showing signs of activity for the first time in thousands of years, raising scientific interest but not immediate concern.
The volcano, known as the Kikai Caldera, lies beneath the sea south of the Japanese island of Kyushu. It is one of the world’s most powerful volcanic systems and was responsible for a huge eruption about 7300 years ago.
Recent studies have found that fresh magma is slowly building up beneath the caldera. Scientists say this is a natural process and part of a long cycle in which such volcanoes recharge over time before any future eruption.
Researchers have also confirmed the presence of a large lava dome deep under the seabed. This structure formed after the last major eruption and shows that the volcano has remained active below the surface, even during long quiet periods.
Despite these developments, experts stress that there is no sign of an imminent eruption. The current changes are happening very slowly and are being closely monitored by scientists.
The ancient eruption of Kikai was one of the most powerful in recent Earth history. It released vast amounts of volcanic material and had a major impact on the environment and human settlements in the region.
Scientists say studying the caldera now provides a rare opportunity to understand how supervolcanoes evolve over thousands of years. This knowledge could help improve early warning systems and better predict future volcanic activity.
While such volcanoes can have global effects if they erupt, experts say the chances of a major eruption in the near future remain very low. For now, the activity is seen as part of the Earth’s natural geological processes rather than a cause for alarm.