<p><br /> A volcano in southwestern Japan has erupted for the sixth time since last week, spewing columns of smoke thousands of feet into the sky.<br /> </p><p><br /> Hundreds of local residents have been evacuated to safer areas after Mount Shinmoe in the Kirishima volcanic group blew its top.<br /> </p><p><br /> Japan's Meteorological Agency said there was no confirmation of any avalanches of volcanic debris from the crater, nor any reports of damage from the surrounding area.<br /> </p><p><br /> The danger zone has now been widened to keep residents safe, although no serious injuries have been reported since the initial eruption last Wednesday.<br /> </p><p><br /> Experts say a dome of lava is growing larger inside the 4,662-foot volcano's crater, but it was not certain whether it would grow enough to spill over the rim and create large flows down the sides.<br /> </p><p><br /> Dozens of domestic flights in and out of Miyazaki prefecture were grounded last week.<br /> </p><p><br /> Train services were also temporarily suspended in the area and many schools closed.<br /> </p>
