Evacuation Orders in Ofunato, Japan, May Be Lifted Following Rainfall Relief
After rainfall, Ofunato officials are contemplating lifting evacuation orders in wildfire-affected areas as conditions improve. The fires have impacted 2,900 hectares and firefighting efforts remain ongoing, including aerial operations. Monitoring will dictate the timing for lifting evacuation orders while more rain is expected.
Authorities in Ofunato, a city in northeastern Japan, are contemplating lifting evacuation orders in certain areas following recent rainfall that has aided firefighting efforts. On Thursday, officials reported that rain beginning Wednesday has diminished the intensity of the wildfires, although white smoke continues to rise from some locations, indicating ongoing flames without further spread.
The officials are proceeding with caution and will evaluate the timing and specific areas for lifting evacuation orders based on careful monitoring of the situation. Forecasts suggest additional rain or snow may arrive in Ofunato by Thursday evening.
Since the wildfires ignited on February 26, the region has seen evacuation orders issued across extensive areas, particularly in the Sanrikucho and Akasakicho districts. Currently, approximately 2,900 hectares, or 9 percent, of the city’s land area has been affected by the fires.
City officials have indicated that it is too early to predict when the blazes will be fully extinguished. Ground firefighting efforts are ongoing, and aerial support from helicopters has resumed after a two-day hiatus, focusing on controlling and extinguishing the flames more effectively.
In summary, authorities in Ofunato are considering lifting evacuation orders due to rainfall reducing wildfire intensity, but they remain vigilant in monitoring the situation. Extensive areas have been impacted, with approximately 2,900 hectares affected. Continued firefighting efforts are essential as officials work to ascertain a timeline for complete extinguishment of the fires. Rain forecasts are expected to aid efforts further, but recovery from the wildfire situation remains a priority.
Original Source: www3.nhk.or.jp
