'takusan shiranami' ... again When I visit and spend time in another country (e.g., Bahamas or Japan), I try to learn the customs and meet the people. I have made many friends on Miyake Island, where I lived from September 1997-99. And this summer, I have made several friends on Mikura. I like to share about my research and the dolphins, but also about my family and from where I come. This morning, I stopped by the kindergarten ('hoikuen'). There were eight students ranging in age from 3 to 5 years in age.
Non-erupting volcanoesYou guessed it ... the volcano did not erupt on Miyake, and we did not get on the water yesterday.
The lava seems to have traveled more towards the island to the west of Miyake, Kozu-jima. We still have many earthquakes a day, but the threat of eruption has been downgraded. Residents are returning to their homes on Miyake.
Since the wind kept a sustained 20-25 knot level with gusts to 35 knots (or so), the waves were not friendly. Thus, we stayed in port.
Wind, rain, sea and volcano The morning brought thick clouds and fog, rain and winds. The sea is filled with 'shiranami' - the white caps that mark a windy day on the water. Sailors would love it ... those of us who swim in the sea prefer not to see the sea with white. The latest reports from last night indicate that the magma from the volcano seems to be moving mostly underground ... that is, under the sea.