Nagano Prefecture observes Shinshu Volcanic Disaster Prevention Day

September 27 marks ‘Shinshu Volcanic Disaster Prevention Day,’ a day established by Nagano Prefecture to honor the victims of the 2014 Mount Ontake eruption and to promote volcanic disaster awareness.

The 2014 eruption of Mount Ontake resulted in significant casualties, including 58 deaths and 5 missing persons, as many climbers were caught in the event. To prevent the memory of this disaster from fading, Nagano Prefecture has designated the period from August 26 to September 27 as ‘Shinshu Volcanic Disaster Prevention Month.’

Nagano is one of Japan’s most volcanic regions, containing six active volcanoes, four of which—Mount Asama, Mount Ontake, Mount Yakedake, and Mount Norikura—require constant monitoring. Authorities urge climbers to prepare for volcanic activity by checking information, carrying helmets, securing communication devices, and identifying evacuation sites.