Wildfires in Western Japan Prompt Evacuations; No Injuries Reported
Wildfires broke out in western Japan on Sunday, prompting evacuations in Okayama and Imabari, but no injuries have been reported. Firefighting efforts include around 15 fire trucks and a helicopter in Okayama, while preventive measures are underway in Imabari. These incidents follow an earlier massive wildfire in Iwate Prefecture that burned 3,000 hectares over 12 days.
On Sunday, wildfires erupted in mountainous regions of two western Japan prefectures, prompting evacuations. Thankfully, local authorities reported no injuries. In Okayama, approximately 15 fire trucks, alongside a firefighting helicopter, were deployed around 3 p.m. to tackle the flames, as indicated by the local fire department.
Simultaneously, a wildfire was confirmed in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture, at about 3:55 p.m. Prefectural police have advised nearby residents to evacuate to ensure their safety while containment efforts are underway.
These recent incidents follow a significant wildfire in Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture, which raged for 12 days starting in late February and scorched roughly 3,000 hectares before being controlled. In Okayama, residents near the fire’s path evacuated voluntarily as flames encroached on their settlements. Additionally, portions of an expressway in Imabari have been closed due to the fire.
Both Okayama and Imabari remain vigilant, monitoring the situation as they gather more data on the ongoing wildfires.
The recent wildfires in western Japan have led to evacuations in Okayama and Imabari, with no reported injuries. Both prefectures are actively engaged in firefighting efforts while remaining on alert for further developments. These events highlight the region’s vulnerability to wildfires, particularly after the substantial blaze in northeastern Japan earlier this year.
Original Source: english.kyodonews.net
