Volcanic alerts raised for Mount Tokachi in Japan and Villarrica in Chile

Volcanic activity has increased in both Japan and Chile, prompting authorities to raise alert levels.

In Japan, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) raised the volcanic alert for Mount Tokachi in Hokkaido to level three of five. This follows an increase in seismic activity detected since August 17. The alert restricts access to the mountain within a three-kilometer radius of the crater due to the risk of volcanic rock expulsion. Mount Tokachi previously experienced its first eruption in over 20 years in July.

In Chile, the Villarrica volcano has been placed under a Yellow Alert following technical meetings between Sernageomin and Senapred. Experts report signs of magma ascent, including continuous tremors, gas emissions, and the ejection of pyroclastic fragments. Consequently, Senapred has issued a Preventive Early Warning for the communes of Villarrica, Pucón, Curarrehue, and Panguipulli.