Japan: Emergency crews responding to grassfire in Kumagaya City, Saitama Prefecture, Feb. 23

Event

Crews are working to contain a wildfire burning near Kumagaya City in Saitama Prefecture, around 70 km (43 miles) north-northwest of Tokyo. The fire broke out in the Tone River bed near the Tosui Bridge in Menuma at around 16:00 JST Feb. 23. The fire is on the Kumagaya side of the bridge, which connects Kumagaya and Ota, Gunma Prefecture. As of late Feb. 23, the fire was approximately 28 hectares (69 acres) in size, and ten fire engines and their crews are on-site battling the blaze. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment date for the fire; hot and dry conditions may hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days. Kumagaya has been under a dry weather warning for the past three days.

The fire is not currently threatening homes in the area and is largely confined to the river bed; however, road closures and transport disruptions are likely in the immediate vicinity of the fire, and the public has been advised to avoid the area due to heavy smoke being produced by the fire. Evacuations and further disruptions are possible at short notice, depending on the evolution of the fire.

Transport
The fire may cause some localized transport disruptions in Kumagaya City. Anticipate the status of nearby roads to change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the fire 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.

Advice

Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in a "go-bag" that can be easily accessed. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.