A forest fire has broken out in Gunma Prefecture, north of Tokyo, prompting local authorities to request the deployment of the Japan Self-Defense Forces as the blaze continues to spread.
The Gunma prefectural government said the fire erupted in the city of Kiryu and had scorched approximately 2,500 square meters of woodland by early afternoon on Sunday. No injuries have been reported.
Emergency services were alerted shortly after 11:20 a.m. following reports of white smoke rising from a mountainside. Firefighters were dispatched to the scene, supported by disaster-response helicopters working to contain the flames from the air.
The Japan Meteorological Agency said a dry air advisory was in effect in Kiryu at the time the fire broke out, later followed by a strong wind warning that raised concerns about the fire’s potential spread.
Police said the affected area is mountainous and located several kilometers north of JR Kiryu Station, adding that no residential properties are believed to be at immediate risk.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as firefighting efforts intensify, with weather conditions expected to play a critical role in determining how quickly the blaze can be brought under control.
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