Forest Fire Erupts in Hiroshima Following Military Training Exercises

A forest fire broke out on a Japanese island in Hiroshima Prefecture on Friday, prompting a swift response from firefighters and aerial support. Initial reports suggest that the blaze may have been ignited by military exercises taking place nearby.

Live coverage from NHK revealed flames consuming a wooded hillside, with thick smoke visible in the sky. The fire comes in the wake of a dry weather advisory issued for southern Hiroshima, where residents have been warned to exercise caution when handling fire due to an extended period without rainfall.

The affected forest is situated adjacent to a shooting range operated by the Maritime Self-Defense Forces (MSDF), which was conducting explosives training around 9:30 a.m. on the same day. An official from the MSDF confirmed that gunpowder was utilized during the drill, but it remains unclear whether this was the direct cause of the fire. Investigations are ongoing to determine the fire's origin.

Approximately 60 firefighters, supported by four helicopters, were deployed to combat the flames, which have reportedly scorched at least two hectares of forest land. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries stemming from this incident. However, authorities have advised around 150 residents of a nearby nursing home to prepare for evacuation should the fire spread further.

The forest is located in the Etajima district of Hiroshima, home to over 20,000 residents. This incident follows a record-setting year for Japan in 2024, which was noted as the hottest since records began in 1898. This trend reflects a broader global issue, as escalated greenhouse gas emissions contribute to climate change, raising concerns about fire hazards in susceptible areas.