The Japan Meteorological Agency said the Sakurajima volcano on the main island of Kyushu in western Japan erupted, sending black smoke high into the air, but there were no immediate reports of any damage or injury.

According to Japanese television, “volcanic rocks have been reported within 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) of the volcano” and explained that “the volcanic eruption alert level has been raised to 5, the highest level, with some areas advised to evacuate .”

Sakurajima is one of the most active volcanoes in Japan, eruptions of various strengths occur regularly. In 2019, the volcano reportedly ejected ash to a height of 5.5 kilometers (3.4 mi).

“There were no immediate reports of damage from Sunday’s eruption,” Japanese Vice Premier Yoshihiko Isozaki said at a press conference, while government officials requested more information on the situation.

Nuclear regulators indicated that “no violations were found at the Sendai nuclear power plant, which is located 50 kilometers from the volcano.”

Video footage shows the red mass flowing down one side of the volcano as the red projectiles fly upwards.

Most of the city of Kagoshima is across the bay from the volcano, according to state television, but some residential areas within about 3 km of the crater may be evacuated depending on the situation.