About Nishinoshima
Nishinoshima is a caldera rising to 100 meters (328 feet) in Japan's Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. The volcano is currently active, with its most recent eruption in 2023 CE. The volcano has produced 15 recorded eruptions, with a maximum Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 2.
Geography & Climate
Nishinoshima is located in Japan, within the Ogasawara Volcanic Arc of the broader Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. Situated at 27.25° N, 140.87° E in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a subtropical climate zone. At just 100 meters above sea level, Nishinoshima is a relatively low-elevation volcanic feature. Despite its modest height, it remains an active geological formation with the same underlying magmatic processes as its taller counterparts. The volcanic landform is characterized as a caldera, which describes the physical shape and structure of the volcanic edifice as observed from the surface.
Geological Context
Nishinoshima sits in a subduction zone, where one tectonic plate dives beneath another, creating intense heat and pressure that generates magma. Subduction zones are responsible for many of the world's most explosive volcanoes and deadliest eruptions. For communities in Japan near Nishinoshima, this tectonic setting means the volcano is capable of producing powerful explosive eruptions, pyroclastic flows, and lahars that can threaten populated areas within tens of kilometers of the summit. The dominant rock type is andesite / basaltic andesite, a dark, fine-grained volcanic rock that forms from rapidly cooling, low-viscosity lava. Basaltic eruptions tend to be less explosive and produce fluid lava flows that can travel long distances. While less immediately dangerous than explosive eruptions, basaltic lava flows can destroy structures and infrastructure in their path, and volcanic gases released during these eruptions can affect air quality over a wide area.
Eruption History Summary
Nishinoshima has 15 recorded eruptions in the geological database, spanning from 1973 CE to 2022 CE. The most powerful recorded event was an explosive event producing ash plumes up to several kilometers in 2022 CE, reaching VEI 2 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index. This level of eruptive frequency indicates a persistently active volcanic system that warrants ongoing monitoring. With eruptive activity as recently as 2022 CE, Nishinoshima remains an actively monitored volcano.
Significance
With 15 recorded eruptions, Nishinoshima has a substantial eruptive history that provides valuable data for understanding volcanic behavior and assessing future hazards in the Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions region. Given its recent activity, Nishinoshima is closely monitored by geological survey organizations to provide early warning of future unrest.
GVP Reference Summary
The small island of Nishinoshima was enlarged when several new islands coalesced during an eruption in 1973-74. Multiple eruptions that began in 2013 completely covered the previous exposed surface and continued to enlarge the island. The island is the summit of a massive submarine volcano that has prominent peaks to the S, W, and NE. The summit of the southern cone rises to within 214 m of the ocean surface 9 km SSE.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
15 Recorded Eruptions
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 2 | Confirmed Eruption | Central cone of 2013 island |
| 2021 | 2 | Confirmed Eruption | Central cone of 2013 island |
| 2019 | 1 | Confirmed Eruption | Central cone of 2013 island |
| 2018 | 1 | Confirmed Eruption | Central cone of 2013 island |
| 2017 | 2 | Confirmed Eruption | Central cone of 2013 island |
| 2013 | 2 | Confirmed Eruption | Vent SSE of existing Nishinoshima |
| 2001 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1986 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1985 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1983 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1982 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1980 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | South, east, and west sides |
| 1978 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | 6.5 km NW of Nishino-shima |
| 1975 | 0 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1973 | 2 | Confirmed Eruption | Vent SE of existing Nishinoshima |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Nishinoshima
Is Nishinoshima an active volcano?+
Yes, Nishinoshima is considered an active volcano. Its most recent eruption was in 2023 CE. The volcano is monitored by geological agencies, and its activity status is based on observed eruptions within recorded history.
When did Nishinoshima last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Nishinoshima occurred in 2022 CE with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 2. The eruption was classified as a "Confirmed Eruption." Nishinoshima has 15 recorded eruptions in total.
How high is Nishinoshima?+
Nishinoshima has a summit elevation of 100 meters (328 feet) above sea level. At 100 meters, it is a relatively low-elevation volcano.
What type of volcano is Nishinoshima?+
Nishinoshima is classified as a Caldera. Calderas are large volcanic depressions formed when a volcano erupts so powerfully that its magma chamber collapses, creating a basin that can be kilometers wide. They are often sites of some of Earth's largest eruptions.
Where is Nishinoshima located?+
Nishinoshima is located in Japan, in the Northwestern Pacific Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Ogasawara Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are 27.247° latitude, 140.874° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Nishinoshima?+
Visiting Nishinoshima requires checking current volcanic activity and alert levels. As an active volcano with eruptions as recent as 2023 CE, conditions can change rapidly. Always consult local geological authorities and follow official warnings before visiting. Many active volcanoes have designated safe viewing areas and guided tour options.
