Situated more than 1,000 kilometers south of Tokyo in the vast Pacific Ocean this newly formed islet is now part of the Ogasawara island chain. On November 1st crew members from the Maritime Self Defense Force stationed on Iwojima Island reported an thunderous explosion. This powerful blast propelled a mass of sand upwards marking the birth of this new island.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has been closely monitoring these developments. They have documented minor earthquakes occurring at short intervals since October 21st on Iwoto Island. Interestingly such seismic activities are not uncommon, along Japans coastlines. Underwater volcanic eruptions often reveal piles of rocks, sediments and sand ultimately leading to the creation of islands. However it is noteworthy that this particular islet is the first to emerge in this region since 1986.
This year through comprehensive digital mapping efforts conducted by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan—marking their first survey in 35 years—approximately 7,000 previously undiscovered islands were revealed across Japan.
Despite these findings the territorial boundaries of Japan have remained constant at 37,000 square kilometers.
Post a Comment