Wildfires force evacuations in Japan

A widespread wildfire emergency continues to unfold in southwestern Japan, with over 1,000 residents ordered to evacuate their homes as firefighters struggle to contain multiple blazes. The most severe fire, which ignited in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture, has already destroyed an estimated 214 hectares of land, according to Japan's national broadcaster NHK.

Weather officials warn that dry conditions are expected to persist in Imabari, potentially complicating firefighting efforts. Meanwhile, a separate wildfire that began simultaneously in neighboring Okayama Prefecture has consumed approximately 250 hectares and damaged six buildings, though authorities report it stopped spreading.

Response efforts have intensified, with both conventional firefighting teams and Japan Self-Defense Force helicopters deployed to battle the blazes. The military involvement highlights the seriousness of the situation as authorities work to prevent further spread in the densely populated regions.

These fires follow a severe wildfire incident in Ōfunato, Iwate Prefecture, where a blaze that began in late February burned approximately 2,900 hectares, resulting in one death and significant property damage.

Experts attribute the current wildfire outbreaks to unusually dry weather conditions and accumulations of dried vegetation on forest floors, creating ideal conditions for rapid fire spread. The parched landscape has become increasingly susceptible to ignition and quick-moving flames.

At least two injuries have been reported so far: a firefighter in Imabari sustained minor injuries, while another person was slightly injured in a smaller fire in Aso village, Kumamoto Prefecture, before that blaze was extinguished.

Local officials continue to monitor the situation closely, with evacuation orders remaining in place as a precautionary measure while firefighting operations continue across the affected regions.