Japanese officials have released an AI-generated video showing a simulation of Mount Fuji violently erupting to raise awareness about a potential disaster.
The video was released to mark Volcanic Disaster Preparedness Day and warns an eruption could strike “at any moment, without warning”.
It depicts a plume of smoke billowing from the volcano before ash falls over central Tokyo, which lies around 60 miles away.
The city is then shown covered in ash within hours of an eruption, 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 says.
The video also shows a family stocking their pantry with canned food and a first aid kit.
Tokyo’s city government said there are currently no signs of Fuji erupting.
It explained: “The simulation is designed to equip residents with accurate knowledge and preparedness measures they can take in case of an emergency.”
Read more:
Family sue OpenAI over teenager’s death after he confided in ChatGPT
Why the tech bubble seems safe – for now
Be the first to get Breaking News
Install the Sky News app for free
Japan is highly vulnerable to natural disasters and is known for its planning for earthquakes, typhoons, floods, mudslides and volcanic eruptions.
It sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire and is home to 111 of the world’s roughly 1,500 active volcanoes.
Follow our channel and never miss an update.
Mt Fuji is Japan’s tallest peak. It used to erupt around once every 30 years, but has been dormant since 1707.
