ISTANBUL

Japan's Meteorological Agency said a volcanic eruption took place early Sunday on Suwanosejima Island in Kagoshima Prefecture of the southwest of the country, according to local media. 

Japanese public broadcaster NHK reported that the eruption occurred at approximately 0.22 a.m. local time (1522GMT).

The Meteorological Agency issues a notice when a volcano erupts after a period of dormancy or when a significant volcanic event occurs.

Residents in the vicinity of the volcano have been advised to take necessary precautions for their safety, the agency said.