The Japanese government has released its first-ever contingency plan to address the potential fallout from a large-scale eruption of Mount Fuji, focusing on countermeasures against widespread volcanic ashfall. The plan outlines four response stages based on the severity of ash accumulation.
According to government simulations, a massive eruption of Mount Fuji comparable to the Hoei Eruption of 1707, combined with unfavorable weather conditions, could result in volcanic ash spreading to Tokyo and ten surrounding prefectures within approximately 15 days. Such an event could disrupt train services, block roads, and lead to large-scale power outages.
A specialized government committee formulated the measures, categorizing responses into four stages based on ash accumulation: less than 3 cm, 3–30 cm with minimal damage, 3–30 cm with significant damage, and over 30 cm.
For the first three stages, residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. In the third stage, people with urgent medical needs may be evacuated to other regions. In the fourth and most severe stage, wooden homes could collapse under the weight of the ash, posing life-threatening risks. This stage could also bring widespread water and power outages, prompting the evacuation of all affected residents.
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