Ehime Forest Fire Spreads Toward Saijo; Evacuation Orders Issued in Imabari
Date: 24-mar-2025 | By: Nuztrend Team
Over 128 Hectares Burned, Fire Still Spreading Due to Winds
A large forest fire in Nagasawa, Imabari City continues to spread into neighboring Saijo City as of March 24, 2025. The blaze, which started just before 4:00 p.m. on March 23, has already scorched at least 128 hectares of land and is being driven eastward by westerly winds.
Evacuation Orders Issued
Imabari City and Saijo City authorities have issued evacuation orders for the following areas:
- Nagasawa district in Imabari City
- Kusunoki and Rokkenya in the Kusugawa district of Saijo City
As of 10 a.m., at least eight residents had evacuated to a meeting hall in Magobeisaku, Imabari. Authorities warn that more evacuations may follow if wind conditions worsen.
Firefighting Efforts Underway
Approximately 350 firefighters and emergency crews are currently involved in the operation, supported by aerial units from:
- Ehime Prefecture’s firefighting helicopter
- Tokushima Prefecture helicopters
- Japan Self-Defense Forces (SDF)
The prefecture has formally requested additional helicopter support from Kochi and Tokushima Prefectures as the fire continues to expand.
Minor Injuries Reported
A member of the local fire brigade, aged in his 70s, suffered minor injuries after falling during response efforts. No major casualties have been reported so far.
Also Read
Voices from the Evacuees
Evacuees staying at the Magobeisaku hall shared their fears and discomforts:
- A man in his 40s said: "I couldn't sleep at all last night. I panicked while evacuating and didn’t know what to pack. I just hope it rains soon and the fire stops."
- An elderly woman in her 80s shared: "The fire glowed red near our home. I wanted to go back, but everyone told me to stay. It was freezing, and I only had one blanket."
Expressway Closures
Due to the fire, the Imabari-Komatsu Expressway has been shut down in both directions between Imabari Yunoura IC and Toyo Tanbara IC, disrupting traffic and emergency response efforts.
Disaster Response Coordination
Ehime Prefecture convened an emergency disaster countermeasure meeting on the night of March 23. Governor Nakamura, SDF representatives, and Imabari City officials were in attendance. The prefecture has requested the deployment of the 14th Brigade of the Ground Self-Defense Forces to assist with firefighting and relief operations.
Governor’s Statement
Governor Nakamura emphasized the urgency of saving lives and staying alert: "The most important thing is to protect human life. Pay close attention to the wind. We must be prepared to respond rapidly to any change in conditions."
💬 Leave a Comment
📝 Recent Comments
No comments yet! Be the first one to comment.
🔄 Read More
⬅ Previous: India-China Relations 2025: Modi’s Positive Outlook Amid Shifting Global Dynamics
Date: 24-Mar-2025
Indian PM Narendra Modi signals optimism in India-China relations despite deep-rooted tensions, highlighting recent cooperation, trade ties, and upcoming diplomatic opportunities.
Next: Turkey Erupts in Mass Protests After Imamoglu's Arrest Sparks Political Turmoil ➡
Date: 24-Mar-2025
Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu's arrest ignites nationwide protests as Turkey faces its largest unrest in over a decade, raising concerns over democracy and political fairness.
