World’s newest island rising from undersea volcanic eruption in Japan

[CharlieH]

 

A new island is rising off the coast of Japan due to an underwater volcano eruption.

The new land mass began forming off the coast of the Japanese island Iwoto, about 1,200km south of Tokyo.

The unnamed island is the product of underwater volcanic activity that began on 21 October and is a rare geological phenomenon.

 

 

Photos have shown one of the eruptions releasing huge plumes of smoke and debris from the sea.

The Earthquake Research Institute at the University of Tokyo said the island consists of rock masses formed at the eruption site. These could grow larger if eruptions continue.

The new island is part of the Ogasawara island chain. This includes Iwoto, previously called Iwo Jima, which was the scene of fierce battles between American and Japanese forces during the Second World War.

With a series of eruptions continuing for days, volcanic ash and rocks have piled up on the shallow seabed. The island’s tip is also rising above the sea surface.

The newest addition to Japan’s already impressive list of islands is about 1,000m in diameter and 20m in height above the sea, said Yuji Usui, an analyst in the Japan Meteorological Agency’s volcanic division.

 

FULL STORY

 

[Danderman123]

Great.

 

Another island for China to claim.