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Miyake-jima Aug.10, 2000
Residents of Miyake-jima, an island 180 kilometers (110 miles) south of Tokyo, had violent volcanic eruptions on the summer of 2000.
On September of that year the village made a tough decision to restict residents to stay in the island as it was filled with a high concentration of volcanic gas. After reports that the gas density has mitigated, the evacuation order was officially lifted at 3 p.m. yesterday. A ferry connecting Tokyo and the island left last night and took the first group of returning residents to their homes today. The residents are required to have gas masks so any time the gas concentration rises, they can save themselves.
7.1% of active volcanoes in the world is located in Japan. Hazardous eruptions occur several times each decade, and as the residents of Miyake-jima will, we must learn how to live with it. Many of us have benefitted from mother nature's blessings. There are always relaxing spas near volcanoes, a popular tourist attraction. Just like flooding had brought fertile land to farmers, it's just a part of great gifts from God. I sure hope everyone can be happy again in their beloved home in Miyake. Good Luck!!