25 Feb 2021 | 03:53 AM UTC
Japan: Evacuations reported due to wildfire in Ashikaga, Tochigi Prefecture, as of Feb. 25
Wildfire ongoing in Ashikaga, Tochigi, Japan, as of Feb. 25. Evacuations reported. Plan for increased security, localized disruptions.
Event
Emergency crews are responding to a wildfire in the Ashikaga area of Tochigi Prefecture as of Feb. 25. The blaze, which started in the Nishinomiya District Feb. 21, has burned over 76 hectares (188 acres) of land and prompted evacuation advisories for over 170 residential units. Officials say they may take several days to control the blaze. There have been no reports of casualties as of Feb. 25.
Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely in the affected area as firefighting operations continue. Authorities will probably impose road closures to facilitate the emergency response. Rail service disruptions may occur at the nearby Ashikaga station along the Ryomo Line. Localized business disruptions and additional evacuation orders are also possible, depending on evolving fire conditions in the coming days.
The incident site is approximately 80 km (50 miles) northwest of Tokyo.
Advice
Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes to circumvent the impacted location. Allow additional time to reach destinations in the affected area until firefighting operations conclude. Consider remaining indoors if affected by heavy smoke, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
