Tokyo is utilizing an artificial intelligence model representing a Mount Fuji eruption as a means for disaster preparation.
Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest peak and an active volcano, has been dormant since the 18th century. However, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government recently released a series of AI-generated videos depicting possible violent eruptions of Mount Fuji, aiming to raise awareness and encourage disaster preparedness.
The videos, published around August 26, 2025, on Volcanic Disaster Preparedness Day, show volcanic ash shrouding central Tokyo within hours, disrupting transportation, food, and power supplies, and causing long-term respiratory problems. The videos are designed to equip the 37 million residents in the greater Tokyo metropolitan area with accurate knowledge and preparedness measures they can take in case of an emergency.
Despite the alarming depictions, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Japan's Cabinet Office Disaster Prevention Division have stated that they have not received any complaints from Tokyo residents about the videos. University of Tokyo professor Naoya Sekiya, a risk communication expert, notes that the government has modeled scenarios for volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, but this does not mean Fuji is about to erupt.
Some residents have expressed anxiety and confusion about the videos, questioning if there are actual signs of eruption. A 57-year-old hospital employee, Shinichiro Kariya, expressed concern about hearing about potential ash fall even in Tokyo. Hiromi Ooki, a resident of Mishima City with prime views of Fuji, plans to buy emergency supplies the next day.
The Japan Meteorological Agency, responsible for disaster planning related to earthquakes, typhoons, floods, mudslides, and volcanic eruptions, did not issue any advisory regarding Mount Fuji's eruption. In August 2022, the Agency issued a "megaquake advisory," highlighting Japan's vulnerability to natural disasters, given its location on the Pacific "Ring of Fire."
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government's video ends with a message encouraging residents to prepare for disaster in their daily lives, showing a family's pantry stocked with canned food and a first-aid kit. The video journalist who contributed to the report is Ayaka McGill.
While the videos have sparked concern among some residents, it is important to note that there are currently no signs of Mount Fuji erupting. The disaster preparedness videos serve as a reminder for all Japanese residents to be vigilant and prepared for potential natural disasters.
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