Japan: Emergency crews working to contain wildfire in Nanyo City, Yamagata Prefecture, as of May 6

Emergency crews are working to contain a wildfire in Nanyo City, Yamagata Prefecture, as of May 6. The fire broke out the afternoon of May 4 in Miyauchi, Nanyo City, and has spread to an estimated 95 hectares (235 acres). The fire is uncontrolled, and more than 60 personnel are on site tackling the blaze. Hot, dry, and windy conditions combined with inaccessible terrain are hampering firefighting efforts. Further wildfire growth is likely over the coming hours and days.

Authorities have issued evacuation orders for 410 people in Kawahi, Nitta, and Uchihara districts. Emergency shelters are in place at Kawahi, Miyauchi, and Nakagawa community centers. Authorities could implement new evacuation orders depending on evolving wildfire conditions. One person sustained burns, and four structures are damaged.

The status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operations. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region. Power outages are possible if fires damage power infrastructure. Authorities may cut off power to parts of the affected area to aid firefighting efforts.