Wed Sep 03 10:16:49 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Japanese officials have released AI-generated simulation videos depicting a potential Mount Fuji eruption to prepare the 37 million residents of the greater Tokyo area for the potential disaster. The videos illustrate the devastating impact of volcanic ash on Tokyo, including transportation paralysis, power outages, and respiratory problems. While the government states there are no current signs of an eruption, some residents have expressed anxiety and confusion over the timing and severity of the simulations. Experts emphasize that the simulations are part of Japan’s ongoing disaster preparedness efforts and do not indicate an imminent eruption.

**News Article:**

**Mount Fuji Eruption Simulation Sparks Anxiety in Tokyo Despite Government Assurances**

**Tokyo, Japan – September 3, 2025** – The Japanese government has released a series of computer- and AI-generated videos simulating a potential eruption of Mount Fuji, sparking both anxiety and renewed focus on disaster preparedness among residents of the greater Tokyo metropolitan area. The simulations, released this week by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, depict the devastating impact of a major eruption on the city, showcasing how volcanic ash could paralyze transportation, disrupt power and food supplies, and cause widespread respiratory problems.

Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic volcano, has been dormant since 1707. The simulations are released on Volcanic Disaster Preparedness Day, as part of a larger effort to educate and prepare the 37 million residents within reach of the mountain, should an eruption occur.

“We need to arm ourselves with facts and prepare for disaster in our daily lives,” the video concludes, showing a family’s well-stocked emergency pantry.

While officials emphasize that there are currently no signs of an impending eruption, the graphic simulations have caused concern among some residents. “Are there actually any signs of eruption?” questioned Shinichiro Kariya, a Tokyo hospital employee. “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.”

Hiromi Ooki, living in Mishima City, stated she would immediately buy more emergency supplies. “Nature’s power is so great that maybe it’s better if it scares us a little.”

University of Tokyo professor and risk communication expert Naoya Sekiya explained that the government routinely models various disaster scenarios, including volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, but stressed this does not mean an eruption of Mount Fuji is imminent. “There’s no particular significance to the timing,” Sekiya said.

Japan is highly vulnerable to natural disasters and maintains meticulous disaster planning protocols. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a “megaquake advisory” after a powerful quake struck the southern coast of Kyushu last year. Of the world’s approximately 1,500 active volcanoes, 111 are located in Japan, which sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire.” The government hopes these simulations will encourage residents to review their emergency plans and supplies, ensuring they are prepared for any potential event.

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