What happens if Mount Fuji erupts? Japan prepares action plan
What's the story
Japan has released a report detailing countermeasures in case of a possible eruption of Mount Fuji.
Though there are no current indications of volcanic activity at Fuji, scientists warn an eruption could still create major challenges for the country.
According to the report, a catastrophic eruption from Japan's most famous mountain, Mount Fuji, could release as much as 490 million cubic meters of ash into the atmosphere.
Eruption impact
Mount Fuji could release 490 million cubic meters of ash
That figure is nearly 10 times the amount of debris produced by the catastrophic 2011 earthquake and tsunami that hit northeastern Japan.
The study highlights an eruption could still be "a major disaster," scientists say—even with a response plan in place.
Per the report, prevailing winds could cause most of the volcanic debris to fall on the east side of Mount Fuji.
Ash blanket would cover the area as far as Sagamihara in western Tokyo, about 60km from the peak.
Ash distribution
Ash fallout could blanket western Tokyo
The thickness of the layer is estimated to be up to 30cm (11.8 inches).
The report goes on to say that almost all of Shizuoka prefecture, the cities of Yokohama and Kawasaki, and even the 23 wards of Tokyo would get about 3cm (1.2 inch) of ash.
Lesser amounts are also likely to settle on the Kanto region in eastern Japan and even travel north to as far as the Fukushima prefecture.
Ash fallout
What preparations are being made
The report also focuses on citizen protection measures, with authorities urging that people seek shelter in the case of an eruption that leaves deep deposits on exposed surfaces.
According to the report, a level-four disaster necessitates the entire evacuation of an impacted area.
In recent years, local governments in Mount Fuji's vicinity have created disaster maps and evacuation plans to help inhabitants avoid potential lava flows.
Residents have also been instructed to stockpile necessities like food, water, and first-aid kits.