Wildfires Devastate Western Japan, Destroying Buildings and Displacing Thousands

Wildfires Ravage Western Japan, Destroying Buildings and Forcing Evacuations

Strong winds fueled out-of-control wildfires in Ehime and Okayama prefectures in western Japan on Wednesday, leaving at least eight buildings destroyed.

The fire in Ehime has consumed over 214 hectares in Imabari, engulfing six houses and two warehouses. In Okayama Prefecture, approximately 310 hectares have been scorched in the cities of Okayama and Tamano.

Firefighters and Ground Self-Defense Forces are battling the blazes, which were first reported on Sunday afternoon. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has instructed relevant agencies to prioritize containment and ensure the safe evacuation of residents.

On Tuesday night, Ehime held a disaster response meeting to assess the fire's spread. Helicopters from the GSDF conducted 55 water drops, but Governor Tokihiro Nakamura emphasized that the situation remains dangerous despite the absence of casualties.

Evacuation orders have been issued to over 5,800 people in Imabari and similar orders have been implemented in Okayama and Tamano.

These latest fires follow a massive wildfire in Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture, which burned around 3,000 hectares of the city over 12 days in late February before being brought under control.