Volcanic eruption creates new islands in Japan

A small island appeared in Japan's territorial waters after the volcano erupted, marking the first time this special phenomenon occurred after 30 years.

>>> Video: Volcanic eruption creates new islands in Japan

According to AFP, white smoke and ash fly up from the eruption volcano discovered by the navy yesterday, about 1,000km south of Tokyo. The Japanese Coast Guard then confirmed the arrival of the new island near Ogasawara, a Japanese archipelago in the Pacific Ocean.

The image recorded after the eruption volcano made a new island in southern Japan.(Photo: AP)

The Japan Meteorological Agency said the island was formed after the volcanic eruption was about 200 meters in diameter. The Japanese Coast Guard warned ships to change direction when passing through the area, until the eruption of the volcano ended.

New islands that appear after volcanic eruptions may not last long due to the impact of erosion. However, if the lava layers are sprayed in large quantities, then cool down and freeze, the volcanic island will continue to exist, marking a new location on the map of the area.

There are about 30 islands located 1,000km south of Japan. Along with Japanese territory, this area is also known as a part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. Similar volcanic eruptions in the years 1970-1980 created many small islands in Japan.

A 7.7-magnitude earthquake in southern Pakistan in September also made a new island about 20m high and 90m wide.