Wildfires are spreading in western Japan, affecting Ehime, Okayama, and Miyazaki prefectures. A significant fire in Ehime has destroyed 306 hectares, prompting evacuation orders for nearly 6,000 residents. Another fire in Okayama City has burned 311 hectares, leading to further evacuations. A new wildfire in Miyazaki is under control efforts, with ongoing assessments for damage.
Wildfires are currently spreading across western Japan, particularly affecting the Ehime and Okayama prefectures, with a new fire reported in Miyazaki Prefecture. The fire in Ehime, which ignited in the Nagasawa area of Imabari City, has scorched approximately 306 hectares, damaging several houses due to embers. The Japan Self-Defense Force has dispatched helicopters to assist with aerial firefighting efforts. Evacuation orders have been issued for nearly 6,000 residents, with 158 individuals currently sheltered in seven centers.
Saijo City has also enacted evacuation measures for the Kusukawa area as dry weather conditions are anticipated, with maximum land wind speeds projected to be under 32.4 kilometers per hour. In Okayama Prefecture, a wildfire that started in Okayama City’s Minami Ward has expanded to approximately 311 hectares, affecting neighboring Tamano City. Evacuation orders were stated for residents in both cities; firefighting efforts persist. Despite ground activities throughout the night, the fire remains uncontrolled, encroaching on residential zones.
Additionally, the Kojima Bay bridge has been closed to private vehicles due to the wildfire’s proximity, impacting local residents. Firefighting helicopters resumed operations at 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday to combat the blaze. Concurrently, a wildfire erupted in Miyazaki Prefecture’s Kagamizu area, necessitating evacuation orders for 70 households. Multiple helicopters were deployed for firefighting efforts, but the blaze remains uncontrollable, with no reported injuries or structural damage thus far. Firefighters continue to monitor the situation closely, assessing the extent of the affected areas.
The ongoing wildfires in western Japan have led to significant evacuations and damage across Ehime, Okayama, and Miyazaki prefectures. Despite aerial and ground firefighting efforts, the fires are still spreading, with evacuation orders in place for thousands of residents. Authorities are maintaining vigilance as they continue to assess the situation, aiming to control the blazes and safeguard the communities affected.
Original Source: www3.nhk.or.jp
