The forest fire in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, which began on March 23, 2025, continues to burn as of March 26, 2025, expanding its reach to approximately 300 hectares. Firefighting efforts have encountered numerous challenges, and the prospects for containment remain uncertain.
Localized flying embers have propelled the fire into residential areas, resulting in the destruction of multiple buildings. Reports indicate that eight homes were completely consumed by the flames: two in the Sakuraido area and two storehouses along with another two residences in the Nodaoi area. Residents reported seeing red flames and hearing the distinctive sound of bamboo bursting due to the heat early that morning, exacerbating anxiety among the community.
As the fire raged on, the Imabari City administration issued evacuation orders affecting roughly 5,988 individuals. These orders spanned multiple neighborhoods including Nagasawa, Asakura Kita, Midorigaoka, and parts of the Sakuraido and Tobe areas, as well as the vicinity surrounding Asakura Minami Otsuno. The city has set up evacuation centers, and, as of the latest reports, 251 people have sought refuge at these shelters. With the flames closing in on residential peripheries, local authorities are prioritizing the welfare of evacuees while coordinating firefighting efforts.
Mayor Shigetatsu Tokunaga emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "The fire has reached residential areas, and we are working closely with the Self-Defense Forces to manage the situation." Emergency services, including helicopters from the Self-Defense Forces, commenced operations early morning on March 26, deploying over 200 water drops on the fire.
Despite these extensive measures, firefighters have struggled to keep pace with the fire's rapid propagation, largely compounded by dry conditions and strong winds. As the Matsuyama Local Meteorological Observatory noted, the upcoming weather forecast predicts continued dry conditions with maximum wind speeds that could reach nine meters per second.
Furthermore, residents are urged to remain vigilant, with hints from Shikoku Electric Power highlighting that outages may affect as many as 76,000 households across Imabari City. Preparations are essential, as authorities have advised residents to keep flashlights ready and smartphones charged in anticipation of potential disruptions.
Transportation services have also been severely impacted by the ongoing wildfire. JR Shikoku announced the suspension of limited express trains operating between Iyo-Saijo Station and Matsuyama Station until approximately 10:00 AM on March 26, as crews assess safety conditions amidst the fire. Moreover, local highway access, especially along the Imabari Komatsu Expressway, is restricted, limiting movement in and out of affected areas.
“Firefighting efforts are continuing, with the fire spreading, and the residents are alert and anxious about the situation,” reported a local news agency. Public safety and communication remain crucial, as city officials implore residents to stay updated through official channels.
As the fire enters its fourth day with no clear containment in sight, there are hopes for rainfall predicted between March 27 and 28, 2025, which could alleviate some risks posed by the current conditions. For now, residents remain on high alert, and firefighting teams persist in their relentless struggle against the elements.
The city maintains ongoing communication to ensure that all emergency protocols are observed, while locals express gratitude for the tireless efforts of firefighters and emergency personnel working day and night to protect lives and properties.
