A startling artificial intelligence simulation has delivered a grave warning: a significant eruption of Japan's iconic Mount Fuji could unleash chaos on Tokyo, with the capital city beginning to be smothered in volcanic ash within a mere three hours.
The research, led by a team of esteemed computer science and physics experts from the University of Tokyo, paints a frighteningly efficient picture of disaster. Their AI model analysed vast amounts of data on Japan's weather patterns and the geological composition of ash from Mount Fuji's last eruption in 1707.
A Capital City Brought to a Standstill
The findings are dire. Prevailing westerly winds would carry billions of cubic feet of volcanic ash directly towards the Greater Tokyo Area, home to over 37 million people. The sheer volume of ash would cause immediate and catastrophic disruptions.
- Transport Collapse: Railways, roads, and airports would become impassable, severing critical supply lines and stranding millions of commuters.
- Health Emergency: The air would become thick with abrasive and toxic particles, posing severe risks to respiratory health and contaminating water supplies.
- Infrastructure Failure: The weight of the ash could cause roofs to collapse, while its abrasive nature would short-circuit electrical systems and disable filters in power plants and industrial facilities.
A Looming Threat Beneath the Beauty
While Mount Fuji is a revered UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Japan, it remains an active volcano. Scientists have long monitored the increasing pressure in its magma chamber, which has been building since a devastating 9.1 magnitude earthquake in 2011. Experts warn the mountain is now in a "critical state" and that another large quake could be the trigger for a catastrophic event.
This AI-powered research moves beyond theoretical fear, providing a precise and data-driven timeline for disaster preparedness. It serves as a crucial call to action for Japanese authorities to urgently review and strengthen evacuation plans, ash-clearing protocols, and public safety measures for what is considered an inevitable future event.
