New Delhi, April 13 -- A powerful eruption at Sakurajima volcano on April 11, 2026, has triggered widespread disruption across southern Japan.

The eruption from the Minamidake crater sent ash plumes soaring up to 3,400 meters into the sky, blanketing large parts of Kagoshima Prefecture in volcanic ash. The explosive event was followed by smaller blasts.

Authorities issued an urgent travel alert as the eruption disrupted transportation networks across the region.

Flights at Kagoshima Airport and nearby hubs were grounded or delayed due to ash clouds posing serious risks to aircraft.

Road closures were also reported in Kagoshima, as well as surrounding areas such as Tarumizu and Kanoya, where ash accumulation made driving hazardous. Pub...