dormant volcanos), which means an eruption could occur unexpectedly. Many visitors and even locals in Tokyo might not feel an immediate concern regarding the threat of an eruption since Mount Fuji last experienced an eruption in 1707. Nevertheless, the Japanese government wants Tokyo residents to be equipped for such a scenario, as it could have catastrophic effects on daily routines in the capital. To raise awareness, the government utilized AI to produce an informational video that illustrates how a Mount Fuji eruption would affect life in Tokyo within a matter of hours, urging citizens in the capital to get ready for the emergency.
According to the AI video, the last eruption of Mount Fuji lasted around two weeks. Depending on atmospheric conditions, wind patterns, and the intensity of the eruption, volcanic ash could reach the city within one to two hours. Residents might receive notifications on their mobile devices about the eruption, and they may observe ash in the atmosphere, but this may not provide enough time for last-minute preparations.
Some visuals presented in the government’s video (shown in the image above and clip below) are breathtaking, depicting the potential impact of a vigorous eruption. The government reveals at the beginning of the clip that it employed generative AI to offer viewers a visualization of how volcanic ash would affect living conditions in Tokyo.
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The AI clip clarifies that volcanic ash consists of “fine, sharp particles,” which can impose health and safety hazards that Tokyo residents should recognize. From a health standpoint, volcanic ash may cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. Additionally, it could adversely affect individuals with specific respiratory ailments, such as asthma. The ash could also compromise water supplies and treatment facilities.
Volcanic ash would immediately influence infrastructure in the city. Just a thin layer of ash could ground aircraft and halt trains. An ash layer exceeding an inch (3 cm) would make road travel perilous, impairing visibility and causing vehicles to skid on the streets.
With limited transportation options, numerous Tokyo residents would struggle to return home swiftly. The AI video envisions the experience of traversing the city while volcanic ash falls. Visibility would be greatly diminished, and individuals would risk inhaling fine particles.
An eruption of Mount Fuji would rapidly hinder deliveries to supermarkets and other essential services. The ash layer could impact communication towers and power lines, resulting in communication failures and power outages. When combined with significant rain, ash could clog drainage systems, causing backups and overflows. Volcanic ash accumulating on wooden structures could potentially lead to their collapse under additional weight.
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