A large mountain fire in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, has raised concerns as it entered its third day with no signs of being brought under control. As of March 25, 2025, the situation has escalated, with buildings confirmed to be engulfed in flames.
The fire, which ignited on March 23, has already consumed approximately 214 hectares of land, marking it as the largest forest fire damage recorded in Ehime Prefecture since the Heisei era. Local authorities reported that this devastating forest fire is being aggressively tackled by the Self-Defense Forces, who have deployed helicopters for aerial firefighting efforts, while ground teams are working tirelessly to contain the blaze.
Reports from the scene indicate that at around 4 PM today, damage assessment teams confirmed that structures in the Sakurai district were ablaze. In a swift response, Imabari City expanded the evacuation advisory area at 3 PM, now affecting 1671 households and approximately 3220 residents throughout Saijo City.
Amid these developments, transportation disruptions are being felt across the region. JR Shikoku announced the suspension of train services between Iyo-Saijo Station and Imabari Station, effective at 2:36 PM today, due to the fire approaching near JR Iyo-Sakurai Station. This suspension includes parts of the Limited Express services, specifically the Shiokaze and Ishizuchi trains which run between Matsuyama Station and Niihama Station.
As the fire continues to threaten more areas, local authorities are dealing with significant challenges in ensuring public safety. Evacuations are compounded by traffic closures on major national roads, which are further affecting community life and access for emergency services. The urgency behind these measures is palpable as more citizens flock to safety.
JR Shikoku has advised passengers to check their website for the latest updates on train service changes, indicating how fluid and precarious the situation remains. These disruptions are not just a nuisance; they reflect the broader impact the fire is having on regional connectivity and public safety.
This incident underscores the necessity for community preparedness, especially in areas prone to such natural disasters. Local officials have been coordinating closely with emergency services to monitor the fire’s progression, implement evacuation orders, and deploy necessary resources for firefighting.
Ultimately, while this mountain fire continues to pose significant risks to life and property, community members are urged to remain vigilant and follow all safety advisories from local officials. The collaborative efforts of all involved—from firefighting personnel to local government—will be crucial in attempting to manage and hopefully extinguish the wildfires plaguing Imabari and surrounding areas.
