Japan: Authorities responding to building fire near Yotsuya Sanchome Station in Tokyo May 5 /update 1

Event

Authorities are responding to a building fire near Yotsuya Sanchome Station in Tokyo on the afternoon of May 5. The cause of the fire is not immediately clear; authorities will likely provide updates in the coming hours. There are no immediate reports of casualties. The neighboring area has been evacuated.

Officials will likely heighten security in the area until firefighting operations conclude. Authorities will also probably close nearby roads, causing localized transport disruptions. Lingering disruptions are possible after crews extinguish the blaze as investigations and cleaning-up operations continue.

Advice

Avoid the area until firefighting operations conclude. Follow all security personnel instructions, including any evacuation orders. Allow additional travel time in the area. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, 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.