Artificial intelligence can predict distribution of radioactive fallout

A means of overcoming the difficulty of a nuclear power plant accident when a radioactive material is released has been found in a new study.

When a nuclear power plant accident occurs and radioactive material is released, it becomes vital to evacuate people in the vicinity as quickly as possible.

However, it can be difficult to immediately predict where the emitted radioactivity will settle, making it impossible to prevent the exposure of large numbers of people.

The researchers at University of Tokyo created a computer program that can accurately predict where radioactive material that has been emitted and where will it eventually land.

Using weather forecasts on the expected wind patterns, this tool enables evacuation plans and other health-protective measures which can be implemented if another nuclear accident occurs.

The study was prompted by the limitations of existing atmospheric modelling tools. In this context, the team created a system based on a form of artificial intelligence called machine learning, which can use data on previous weather patterns to predict the route of radioactive emissions that are likely to take place.

It could also predict the direction of dispersion especially in winters, when there are more predictable weather patterns.

The findings are published in the Journal of Scientific Reports.