A mountain-forest fire in the Misugi-cho area of Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, remained uncontained as of Wednesday [1].
The blaze has required a massive mobilization of regional and national resources, including a request for military assistance, to prevent further spread through the forested terrain.
Local residents first reported smoke and flames at approximately 15:20 JST on May 19, 2026 [1]. In response, authorities dispatched 12 fire-engine trucks to the Shitamachi area [1]. The firefighting effort involved a wide range of responders, including the Mie Prefecture fire department, local volunteer fire corps, and police aviation units [1].
Reports on the number of personnel engaged in the effort vary. One report said approximately 140 people were involved [1], while another said approximately 30 personnel [2].
To combat the fire from the air, two firefighting helicopters were deployed [2]. A police helicopter also surveyed the scene on May 20 [1]. Because the fire persisted, a disaster-dispatch request was issued to the Self-Defense Forces on May 19 [1].
Firefighters continued their efforts through the night of May 19 and into May 20 [3]. As of 07:00 JST on May 20, the burned area was estimated at about 10 hectares [4].
Officials said they have not yet reported the cause of the fire [1].
“A disaster-dispatch request was issued to the Self-Defense Forces”
The deployment of the Self-Defense Forces and the use of multiple aviation units indicate that the terrain in Misugi-cho is likely too rugged for ground crews alone. The fact that the fire remained uncontained despite these resources suggests challenging weather conditions or high fuel loads in the forest, increasing the risk of further ecological damage.
