Japan Volcano Eruption Sparks Fears Amid July 5 ‘New Baba Vanga’ Prophecy
Mount Shinmoedake in southern Japan erupted on July 2, sending ash plumes soaring and reviving fears linked to a July 5 catastrophe prediction from manga artist Ryo Tatsuki—dubbed Japan’s “New Baba Vanga.” The eruption followed a 5.5‑magnitude earthquake near the Tokara Islands, intensifying public anxiety.
Volcano Eruption
On Wednesday afternoon, Shinmoedake—a volcano renowned for its dramatic activity—produced one of its strongest blasts in years. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reported the ash column reached approximately 3,000 meters.
The JMA issued safety advisories, warning locals to avoid the immediate vicinity due to risks from falling rocks and potential pyroclastic flows.
Manga Prophecy
Attention quickly turned to Ryo Tatsuki’s 2021 manga, The Future I Saw, which depicted a catastrophic event around July 5, 2025. Social media users, noting the timing, drew connections to this eruption and recent earthquake swarm.
In her comic, Tatsuki described the sea “boiling south of Japan in July 2025” and warned of an undersea rupture capable of triggering a tsunami.
Public Reaction
Fears amplified on social networks, with many speculating that the prophecy might be unfolding. Surveys indicate nearly half of Japanese consumers have encountered references to this prediction, especially those aged 15–69.
Tourists, particularly from East Asia, have begun canceling or postponing visits, with some travel services reporting a drop of up to 50% in Japan bookings. One Hong Kong visitor admitted:
“If possible, I may postpone my visit and travel after September.”
Expert & Official Response
Authorities have been quick to dismiss fears. The JMA emphasized that volcanic and seismic activity are not uncommon in Japan. Miyagi Prefecture’s governor, Yoshihiro Murai, cautioned:
“It is a serious issue when highly unscientific rumours on social media affect tourism.”
Ryo Tatsuki herself advised readers:
“It’s important not to be unnecessarily influenced … and to listen to the opinions of experts.”
Broader Context
Shinmoedake has a history of eruptions, with the last minor episode occurring in 2018 and a more disruptive one in 2011. This latest activity comes after elevated alert levels and ground swelling detected in late June, though no fresh magma was reported just prior to the eruption.
While Japan remains on high alert, scientists say there is currently no evidence linking the eruption or earthquakes to the manga prophecy. Travel analysts warn that continued panic could cost Japan’s tourist industry billions.
