What Were the Warning Signs of the Eruption of Mount Fuji?
The last major eruption of Mount Fuji began in 1707 and ended in 1708 C.E. (A.D.), and was a level five on the VEI or volcanic explosivity index, according to volcano.si.edu. The eruption exploded outward from the volcano's southeast side, and, while causing no fatalities, resulted in extensive damage to buildings and the surrounding environment.
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Earthquakes
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The vast majority of major volcanic eruptions are preceded by an increase in seismic activity, and there was no exception in the 1707 eruption. According to abc.net.au, earthquakes likely occurred frequently and grew in intensity during the week or two-week period leading up to the beginning of the eruption.
Small Shape Changes
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In the year prior to the 1707 eruption, Mount Fuji underwent small shape changes due to the volcanic pressures building up below it.
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Extra Peak
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A few days before the 1707 eruption, these gradual changes culminated in a second volcanic peak---alongside the central one---which was approximately 2,693 meters high, according to lyon.edu.
Mud Flows
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According to volcano.si.edu, the 1707 Mount Fuji eruption was also preceded by destructive mudflows known as lahars, which flowed down the mountain due to the seismic activity and shape changes occurring.
Smoke and Ash
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If you had started to notice smoke and ash escaping from Mount Fuji in 1707, then eruption was imminent. The smoke and ash indicate that underground pressures have finally escaped and reached the surface.
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