Mount Sakurajima in SW Japan erupts

Mount Sakurajima in southwestern Japan's Kagoshima prefecture erupted at around 6:56 p.m. local time on Friday.

There were no immediate reports on damage or injuries.

Lava erupted out of the Showa crater in the east of the volcano, according to Japanese public broadcaster NHK.

Warning level for the crater was upgraded to level 3 from level 2, said the Japan Meteorological Agency, meaning individuals are forbidden to get close to the volcano.

The volcano's latest eruption was recorded in May 21, 2015. Also in August last year, warning level for the mountain was upgraded to level 4, which means preparing for evacuation due to intensified volcanic activities.
  [Xinhua]
  5/2/16
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