Residents of Miyake Island forced to flee heightened volcanic activity last September will be allowed to pay a temporary visit to their homes early next month, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government announced Friday.
According to officials, one person from each of Miyake's 1,900 households will be able spend half a day on the island, located some 180 km south of Tokyo. The visits will be conducted over five days beginning Sept. 10.
While members of 69 households whose properties were severely damaged by mud floods were allowed to inspect their homes last month, Friday's announcement marks the first time all islanders are able to set foot on Miyake since September, when volcanic activity of Mount Oyama forced an all-out evacuation.
The officials said the visits are possible due to the construction of buildings that can shut out poisonous volcanic gas. These buildings, with a minimum capacity of 520 people, will be ready by the time the visitors arrive.
According to the officials, Mount Oyama continues to spew some 10,000 to 20,000 tons of sulfur dioxide daily, logging up to 12 parts per million at some points.
Miyake officials will start sending postcards next week to each household to inquire about the upcoming visits.