Wildfires Intensify Across Western Japan, Prompting Widespread Evacuations
Wildfires are spreading in western Japan, particularly affecting Ehime, Okayama, and Miyazaki prefectures. Significant damage has occurred with multiple evacuations implemented. Firefighting operations are ongoing, but containment remains elusive amidst challenging weather conditions.
Wildfires across western Japan continue to intensify, with critical situations reported in Ehime, Okayama, and Miyazaki prefectures. In Ehime, a blaze that started in the Nagasawa area of Imabari City has consumed 306 hectares, damaging multiple homes due to ember spread. Approximately 6,000 residents have received evacuation orders, with 158 individuals currently sheltered in seven evacuation centers.
In Saijo City, an evacuation order has also been issued for the Kusukawa area, as dry weather conditions persist. Additionally, wind speeds are anticipated to remain below 32.4 kilometers per hour. In Okayama, another wildfire began on the same day in Okayama City, affecting over 311 hectares in Minami Ward and Tamano City, resulting in structural damage to six buildings. Local authorities have issued evacuation orders, urging residents to seek shelter as firefighting efforts continue.
Ground-based firefighting operations remained active through the night; however, control over the blazes has yet to be achieved. The Kojima Bay Bridge, located close to the fires, was closed to private vehicles, raising concerns regarding the daily lives of local residents. Helicopter firefighting resumed around 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday to combat the ongoing wildfire.
On Tuesday, a new wildfire erupted in the Kagamizu area of Miyazaki City, leading to the deployment of four helicopters for aerial support. Efforts to control this fire were hampered, resulting in a suspension at sunset. Evacuation orders were issued for 70 households nearby, as an elementary school lies about one kilometer from the fire. Although firefighters remain vigilant, there are no reports of injuries or significant structure damage at this time, and the wildfire continues to spread without a clear containment strategy.
In summary, the wildfires in western Japan pose an ongoing threat, triggering evacuations and structural damage across multiple prefectures. Efforts by local authorities and the Japan Self-Defense Forces are underway to combat these blazes, though challenges remain due to weather conditions and the scale of the fires. As investigations into the extent of the destruction continue, the urgent need for effective firefighting operations is evident.
Original Source: www3.nhk.or.jp
