Japan’s Mount Fuji hasn’t erupted since 1707. However, Japanese citizens this week saw a glimpse of what a dreadful volcanic eruption could look like when the Tokyo Metropolitan Government released a set of AI-generated videos depicting this scenario.
The videos were released as part of a Volcanic Disaster Preparedness Day awareness campaign.
Simulating what happens if Fuji erupted violently today, officials said that the purpose was to prepare 37 million people in the greater Tokyo metropolitan area for a disaster scenario that could unfold with little or no warning.
More on the video
The video depicts smoke billowing from the volcano before ashes fall over central Tokyo, about 60 miles away.
The city is then covered in ash within hours of an eruption. The video also shows bringing transport to a halt, disrupting food and power supplies, and causing long-term respiratory issues.
“We need to arm ourselves with facts and prepare for disaster in our daily lives,” it said.
However, the Tokyo government said there are no signs of Fuji erupting.
“The simulation is designed to equip residents with accurate knowledge and preparedness measures they can take in case of an emergency,” it explained.
Preparedness or panic?
While officials insist no signs of an imminent eruption, the videos have triggered mixed reactions. Some residents have welcomed the wake-up call.
Hiromi Ooki, who lives in Mishima City and has a clear view of Fuji, said she planned to buy emergency supplies immediately. “Nature’s power is so great that maybe it’s better if it scares us a little,” she noted.
Others expressed confusion and unease. “Are there any signs of eruption?” asked Shinichiro Kariya, a 57-year-old hospital team member.
“Why are we suddenly hearing about 10 centimeters of ash falling, even in Tokyo? I’m wondering why this is happening now,” she continued.
Officials from the Tokyo government confirmed the campaign intended to spread awareness, not alarm.
According to Naoya Sekiya, a risk communication expert at the University of Tokyo, such simulations are not new. The government has long modeled scenarios for earthquakes, typhoons, and volcanic eruptions.
“There’s no particular significance to the timing,” he said.
Mount Fuji’s dormant threat
Fuji, Japan’s tallest peak, erupted roughly every 30 years and 318 years since its last eruption, known as the Hoei eruption, showered ash across Edo. Scientists warn that Fuji remains classified as an active volcano despite centuries of silence.
Japan, home to 111 active volcanoes, sits squarely on the Pacific’ Ring of Fire.’ Last year, the Japan Meteorological Agency issued its first-ever “megaquake advisory” following a powerful offshore tremor near Kyushu, reinforcing how seriously authorities take even low-probability events.
AI in disaster planning
AI adds a modern twist to Japan’s longstanding disaster-preparedness culture. By visualizing a worst-case scenario, officials hope to make residents think practically: stock essentials, known evacuation routes, and stay alert.
For some, the realism is unsettling. For others, it’s a vital reminder that the majestic, snow-capped symbol of Japan still holds the power to reshape lives in an instant.
AloJapan.com