Japanese professor warns of high probability of eruption of Mt. Fuji within 3 years

May 21, 2012 – JAPAN – Professor Emeritus, Kimura from Ryukyu University warns that an eruption of Mt. Fuji in 3 years is a bigger risk than previously thought possible earthquake because of the 34 km long fault found under the volcano. He points out these facts: One, from North east to South west of the crater, fumarole emissions are being observed. This is the water version of eruption instead of magma, but the mechanism is almost the same as normal eruption. In Fujinomiya city beside Mt. Fuji, water has been springing every few months since 2 years ago. Fujigoko Lake located at North to Mt. Fuji. And secondly, huge holes appear in the Fuji maneuvering ground of Japanese Self Defense Force. Natural gas is coming up from the holes. The temperature is 40℃ ~ 50℃. It is not the volcanic gas directly coming up from magma but considering water eruption as well, it is highly likely to be the omen of major eruption at the volcano. Mt. Fuji hasn’t erupted since 1707. According to the simulation of Cabinet Government, volcanic ash will be accumulated 2~10cm even in Tokyo, where is 100km away from Mt. Fuji. In the worst case, 14,600km of road will be closed. 515 flights will be cancelled a day. 1,080,000 houses will be out of power. The estimated economical damage will be 2 trillion and 500 billion yen. –Fukushima Diary

contribution by Josh B.