AI Simulates Mount Fuji Eruption Threat to Tokyo
Japanese officials are leveraging advanced technology to prepare for a centuries-old threat. For Volcanic Disaster Preparedness Day, computer- and AI-generated videos have been released to simulate a potential eruption of Mount Fuji, an active volcano that has been dormant since 1707. The initiative aims to prepare the 37 million residents of the greater Tokyo metropolitan area for a disaster that could strike with little to no warning.
Visualizing a Potential Disaster
The simulation video, produced by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, paints a stark picture of what could happen. It warns that an eruption could occur "at any moment, without warning." Within hours, the simulation shows central Tokyo, located about 100 kilometers (60 miles) away, being blanketed by volcanic ash. This would paralyze transportation systems, disrupt food and power supplies, and potentially cause long-term respiratory health problems for the population. The video concludes with a powerful message urging residents to prepare: “We need to arm ourselves with facts and prepare for disaster in our daily lives,” as it shows a family's well-stocked emergency pantry.
The Goal Is Preparedness Not Panic
Despite the dramatic visuals, the Tokyo government has emphasized that there are currently no signs of an imminent eruption of Mount Fuji. In a statement, officials clarified the purpose of the simulation. “The simulation is designed to equip residents with accurate knowledge and preparedness measures they can take in case of an emergency,” it explained. University of Tokyo professor and risk communication expert Naoya Sekiya supported this, noting that the government has been modeling disaster scenarios for years and that there is “no particular significance to the timing” of the video's release.
Public Reaction A Mix of Anxiety and Action
The videos have generated mixed feelings among the public. Some residents expressed concern and confusion. “Why are we now hearing things like ‘10 centimeters of ash could fall,’ even in Tokyo? I’m wondering why this is happening all of a sudden,” said Shinichiro Kariya, a 57-year-old hospital employee. Others saw it as a necessary wake-up call. Hiromi Ooki, who lives with a clear view of the mountain, said she planned to buy emergency supplies. “Nature’s power is so great that maybe it’s better if it scares us a little,” she commented. Despite these anecdotal reactions, government representatives said they had not received any formal complaints about the videos.
Japan's Long History with Natural Disasters
Japan’s focus on meticulous disaster planning is a result of its geography. Located on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” the nation is highly vulnerable to natural disasters, including earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and volcanic eruptions. The country is home to 111 of the world’s approximately 1,500 active volcanoes. While Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest peak, once erupted frequently, it has remained quiet for over 300 years, making modern preparedness drills like this AI simulation all the more critical.
