Japan uses an AI video to show how Fuji erupts. Japan is as much threatened by disasters as no other country, but at the same time is extremely well prepared.
The English-language magazine CNN reports that the Japanese government has chosen drastic methods to warn the population: With an AI-generated video, a hypothetical eruption of Mount Fuji is shown and its potential impacts are simulated.
The aim of the government is to draw attention to the risks of major volcanic eruptions and to raise public awareness. Mount Fuji is considered one of the most famous and dangerous active volcanoes in Japan. A major eruption could have serious consequences for infrastructure, health, and the daily lives of many people in Japan.
Japan wants to warn its population of potential dangers but is already well prepared
Why is the government doing this? Japan is located on the so-called “Pacific Ring of Fire,” a zone with intense tectonic activity that causes many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The country is thus more frequently threatened by natural disasters than others. “Hardly any other land state is as threatened by natural disasters as Japan,” writes Diercke.de and explains the various possible options presented by the geographical location. Various disasters regularly threaten Japan:
- Earthquakes: Over 1,400 earthquakes are recorded in Japan each year. Many are noticeable and potentially dangerous.
- Tsunamis: The location by the Pacific and the frequency of earthquakes make Japan particularly prone to tsunamis, especially along the coasts.
- Volcanoes: Japan has over 100 active volcanoes, including Fuji and Sakurajima, often near densely populated areas.
- Typhoons: About 30 tropical cyclones (typhoons) pass over Japan each year, especially in late summer to autumn, causing flooding, landslides, and high property damage.
- Floods and landslides: The mountainous terrain, climate with heavy rainfall, and short steep rivers particularly favor flooding and landslides during the humid summer months.
What is Japan doing about it? In contrast to Germany, where some public alarm sirens do not function (via RND) and about 10,000 sirens are missing alone in Bavaria (via BR24), Japan is globally known for preparedness and disaster protection due to its culture and technology, such as through a sophisticated warning system and good government communication. This is explained by Japandigest.de: Children are taught from a young age how to behave in emergencies, and disaster preparedness is omnipresent.
How do the reactions of the population turn out? The reactions of the population are very diverse. Some perceive the actions of the Japanese authorities as alarmist, as well-meaning warnings have deterred some tourists in recent months. Someone writes (via CNN.com):
It is generally used to create a sense of crisis and fear.
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