Authorities in Ofunato, northeastern Japan, may lift evacuation orders as recent rains have aided firefighters against wildfires. Continued monitoring is essential as white smoke persists in certain areas. The wildfires, ongoing for eight days, have consumed 2,900 hectares of land, and aerial firefighting support has resumed.
Local authorities in Ofunato, a city in northeastern Japan, are contemplating the lifting of evacuation orders for specific areas as rainfall has aided firefighters in controlling the wildfires. Officials reported that the rain, which commenced Wednesday, has diminished the intensity of the fires, although white smoke continues to emit from certain locations without any indication of further spread.
Despite the progress, careful monitoring is essential before making decisions regarding the evacuation orders. Officials are set to assess the situation with future forecasts predicting additional rainfall or snowfall in Ofunato on Thursday evening. Currently, evacuation directives remain in effect for the districts of Sanrikucho and Akasakicho.
As of Thursday, the wildfires have persisted for eight days, with the blazes having scorched approximately 2,900 hectares, equating to 9 percent of Ofunato’s land area. While city officials have not determined when the fires might be fully extinguished, firefighting efforts are ongoing, and aerial support with helicopters has recommenced for the first time in two days.
In summary, the authorities in Ofunato are considering lifting evacuation orders due to the recent rainfall that has lessened wildfire intensity. Rainfall is expected to continue, facilitating firefighting efforts. However, precaution will govern decisions regarding the safety of residents while the blazes continue to be monitored, having already consumed a significant portion of land.
Original Source: www3.nhk.or.jp
