Ehime Wildfire Proliferates While Okayama Fire Subsides

A wildfire in Ehime Prefecture continues to spread, reaching 171 hectares, with evacuation orders affecting numerous households. Meanwhile, the Okayama fire has subsided, allowing evacuation orders to be lifted. Both fires are linked to ongoing dry weather, with prior significant wildfires also noted in Japan.

A wildfire that ignited over the weekend in Ehime Prefecture has continued to expand, reaching 171 hectares by Tuesday despite ongoing extinguishing efforts. Fortunately, no significant building damage has been reported, although one individual sustained minor injuries. Evacuation orders still affect 553 individuals across 1,079 households in Imabari, as well as 792 individuals across 1,506 households in the neighboring city of Saijo.

In contrast, a wildfire in Okayama Prefecture that started at a similar time has calmed down significantly. This fire initially scorched 250 hectares and led to the destruction of at least six buildings. By Monday afternoon, the city of Okayama was able to lift all evacuation orders, although helicopters continued aerial operations on Tuesday to ensure the fire remained contained.

Both wildfires have emerged during an extended period of exceptionally dry weather, which has contributed to a rise in fire incidents across Japan in recent weeks. Notably, a recent massive wildfire in Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture burned 2,900 hectares—approximately 9% of the city’s land—over a week, resulting in one fatality and damage to 210 structures.

Furthermore, South Korea is experiencing its severe forest fire, which began last Friday and has ravaged about 15,000 hectares, leading to at least four fatalities and displacing 3,300 residents, as reported by Yonhap News.

The Ehime wildfire remains active, affecting numerous households, while the Okayama fire has subsided, allowing for evacuation orders to be lifted. Both events highlight the dangers of wildfires exacerbated by prolonged dry conditions, reflecting a broader trend of increasing fire occurrences in Japan and neighboring regions like South Korea.

Original Source: www.japantimes.co.jp