A volcano on the southern island of Kyushu has begun to spew ash and rock, the country’s weather agency has announced.

Shonmoedake mountain is more than 1,500km from the epicentre of Friday’s earthquake, and it’s not yet clear if the eruption is linked to the earlier seismic activity.

Also reported is the 70% likelihood of aftershocks greater than magnitude 7 by Wednesday, and 50% chance of more through the end of the week.

Blackouts are due to begin today and people are asked not to leave the vicinity of their homes as transport and other services will be affected. The blackouts are expected to last through the end of April.

The folks at JapanesePod101.com have been kind enough to release their iPad/Phone/Touch apps for free through the 19th to assist those with sudden language needs due to the tragedy continuing to unfold.