Social News(2025/03/24)
Financial Services Agency issues business improvement order to four major non-life insurance companies over 2.68 million personal information leaks
2025-03-24 23:48:00
In response to a problem in which an employee of a non-life insurance company who was seconded to a so-called joint insurance agency that handles insurance for multiple companies leaked customer information of a competitor to his own company, the Financial Services Agency has issued business improvement orders to four major insurance companies under the Insurance Business Act.
TOP
Sports gambling study group to be launched jointly by JOC and others
2025-03-24 23:24:00
As issues surrounding online casinos spread to the world of sports, it has been learned that several sports organizations, including the Japan Olympic Committee, are planning to jointly launch a study group to gather information from lawyers and others knowledgeable about overseas sports gambling in order to prevent athletes from becoming embroiled in illegal activities such as match fixing.
TOP
Financial Services Agency issues business improvement order to four major non-life insurance companies over 2.68 million personal information leaks
2025-03-24 23:07:00
In response to a problem in which an employee of a non-life insurance company who was seconded to a so-called joint insurance agency that handles insurance for multiple companies leaked customer information of a competitor to his own company, the Financial Services Agency has issued business improvement orders to four major insurance companies under the Insurance Business Act.
TOP
A light truck crashed into elementary school students in Hamamatsu, killing one and leaving another seriously injured; 78-year-old driver arrested
2025-03-24 23:05:00
In an accident in Hamamatsu City, a light truck crashed into a group of four elementary school children riding bicycles, resulting in the death of one girl who was unconscious and in critical condition, and the death of another child who was unconscious and in critical condition. Police arrested the 78-year-old driver of the light truck on the spot and are currently investigating the details of the incident.
TOP
Tornado warning for Tokyo's 23 wards and Tama, northwestern and southern Chiba Prefecture
2025-03-24 22:43:00
At 10:22 pm on the 24th, the Japan Meteorological Agency issued a "tornado warning" for the 23 wards of Tokyo, Tama, and northwest and southern Chiba Prefecture. Tornadoes and other gusts of wind occur when a developed cumulonimbus cloud approaches. The Japan Meteorological Agency urges people to be cautious of gusts of wind if there are signs of an approaching cumulonimbus cloud, such as lightning, sudden changes in wind, or hail, and to ensure safety inside a sturdy building.
TOP
A light truck crashed into elementary school students in Hamamatsu, killing one and leaving another seriously injured; 78-year-old driver arrested
2025-03-24 22:02:00
On the evening of the 24th, a light truck crashed into a group of four elementary school children riding bicycles in Hamamatsu City, and according to the police, one girl who was unconscious and in critical condition has died, and another child is also unconscious and in critical condition. The police arrested the 78-year-old driver of the light truck on the spot and are currently investigating the details of the incident.
TOP
Sato Foods to discontinue sales of some products due to rising demand for packed rice
2025-03-24 21:53:00
Due to the growing demand for packaged rice in the wake of a rice shortage, Sato Foods has announced that it will discontinue sales of some of its products. In order to ensure a more stable supply of products, the company will continue to offer a smaller number of products.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Ehime forest fire continues to spread, evacuation orders expanded
2025-03-24 21:42:00
A forest fire broke out in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture on the 23rd, and even though more than a day has passed since it started, it is still spreading, with the burned area now at 158 hectares, making it the largest forest fire to have occurred in the prefecture since 1989. In some places, the fire has approached the mountain behind houses, and the city has issued evacuation orders for new areas.
TOP
Tornado warning for all of Shizuoka Prefecture
2025-03-24 21:42:00
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a "tornado warning" for the entire Shizuoka Prefecture at 9:27 pm on the 24th. Tornadoes and other gusts of wind occur when developed cumulonimbus clouds approach. The Japan Meteorological Agency urges people to be cautious of gusts of wind if there are signs of approaching cumulonimbus clouds, such as lightning, sudden changes in wind, and hail, and to ensure safety inside sturdy buildings.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Forest fire in Okayama City: Firefighting efforts continue, evacuation orders lifted
2025-03-24 21:36:00
On the 23rd, a forest fire broke out in the mountainous area of Minami-ku, Okayama City, and is still spreading more than a day later. However, the city has lifted all evacuation orders in some areas, saying that the fire has subsided and it is expected that it will be possible to prevent the fire from spreading to residential areas.
TOP
Nuclear power plant operation extension period: Power company mistakes and other reasons do not qualify for extended review
2025-03-24 21:13:00
Ahead of the enforcement of a law that will allow the operating period of nuclear power plants, which has been set at a maximum of 60 years, to be extended by the period during which they are shut down for inspections, etc., the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has proposed standards that will not include cases where the inspection is prolonged due to mistakes or mismanagement by power companies in the period that can be extended.
TOP
More than 2.6 million personal information records leaked from four major non-life insurance companies; Financial Services Agency issues business improvement orders
2025-03-24 21:12:00
On the 24th, the Financial Services Agency issued a business improvement order under the Insurance Business Act to four major insurance companies, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance, Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance, Sompo Japan Insurance Inc., and Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co., Ltd., in response to a problem in which an employee of a non-life insurance company who was seconded to a so-called shared insurance agency that handles insurance for multiple companies leaked customer information of other companies to his own company. The FSA confirmed that a combined total of over 2.6 million pieces of personal information had been leaked by the four companies, and in the order it called for the submission of a business improvement plan regarding the management and governance of customer information.
TOP
A light truck crashed into elementary school students in Hamamatsu, leaving one seriously injured and two injured; 78-year-old driver arrested
2025-03-24 20:58:00
On the evening of the 24th, a light truck crashed into a group of four elementary school students on bicycles in Hamamatsu City, leaving one girl unconscious and in critical condition, and two others injured. Police arrested the 78-year-old driver of the light truck on the spot and are currently investigating the details of the incident.
TOP
Tornado warning for all of Shizuoka Prefecture
2025-03-24 20:53:00
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a "tornado warning" for the entire Shizuoka Prefecture at 8:32 pm on the 24th. Tornadoes and other gusts of wind occur when developed cumulonimbus clouds approach. The Japan Meteorological Agency urges people to be cautious of gusts of wind if there are signs of approaching cumulonimbus clouds, such as lightning, sudden changes in wind, and hail, and to ensure safety inside sturdy buildings.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Forest fire in Ehime Prefecture: Evacuation orders extended to Imabari City
2025-03-24 20:37:00
A forest fire broke out in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture on the 23rd, and even now, a full day after it started, it continues to spread. The fire has approached the mountain behind some houses, and firefighting efforts are underway. Imabari City issued evacuation orders to 698 people in 334 households in the Asakurakita area before 6:00 p.m. on the 24th, and to 230 people in 114 households in the Midorigaoka Danchi area at 8:00 p.m.
TOP
The Self-Defense Forces' "Joint Operations Command" is launched to unify the command of the Ground, Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces.
2025-03-24 19:29:00
The Joint Operations Command, which will provide unified command of the Ground, Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces, was launched on the 24th, and the command's top commander stated, "We will respond appropriately from peacetime to emergencies in order to protect the lives and peaceful lives of the people."
TOP
A light truck crashed into an elementary school student in Hamamatsu, leaving one seriously injured and three injured; driver in his 70s arrested
2025-03-24 19:20:00
According to police and firefighters, a light truck crashed into four elementary school students who were believed to be riding bicycles in Hamamatsu City's Chuo Ward at around 4:30 pm on the 24th. One of the girls is in critical condition and unconscious. The other three girls were also injured, but their injuries are not life-threatening. Police have arrested the driver of the light truck, a man in his 70s, on suspicion of negligent driving causing injury. The incident occurred on a road in front of Hamamatsu City Zoo in Hamamatsu City's Chuo Ward, and police and others are currently investigating the details of the incident.
TOP
Professional baseball: 16 players from 8 teams fined for online casino use
2025-03-24 19:09:00
Regarding the issue surrounding online casinos in professional baseball, the NPB has announced that 16 players from eight teams have been found to have used them, and that each team will be fined a total of 10.2 million yen.
TOP
Problems with the Minority Driver's License since its first implementation: Some people are unable to register
2025-03-24 19:09:00
The "My Number License," which combines the My Number Card and driver's license, began operation on the 24th, and people were seen visiting driver's license centers around the country to complete the procedure. However, there were also a series of problems, such as a system failure that made it impossible to complete the procedure and a glitch in the app that reads the "My Number License" information.
TOP
Japan Fair Trade Commission imposes fines of over 500 million yen on four companies for violating antitrust laws over multi-storey car park construction
2025-03-24 19:05:00
The Fair Trade Commission found the five companies in violation of the Antimonopoly Act by deciding in advance the companies and prices to be awarded contracts for the construction of mechanical equipment for multi-story parking lots in condominiums and buildings, and issued cease and desist orders to prevent recurrence. It also ordered four of the companies to pay a combined penalty of more than 520 million yen.
TOP
A light truck crashes into four girls in Hamamatsu, leaving one unconscious and three injured
2025-03-24 18:52:00
According to police and firefighters, a light truck crashed into four elementary school children in Hamamatsu City's Chuo Ward at around 4:30 pm on the 24th. One of the girls is unconscious and in critical condition. The other three girls were also injured, but their injuries are not life-threatening. The incident occurred on a road in front of the Hamamatsu City Zoo in Hamamatsu City's Chuo Ward, and police are currently investigating the details of the incident.
TOP
Shizuoka District Court awards 217 million yen in criminal compensation to Iwao Hakamada after he is found not guilty in retrial
2025-03-24 18:48:00
On the 24th, the Shizuoka District Court decided to award 217 million yen to Iwao Hakamada, who was found not guilty in a retrial for the murder of a family of four in Shizuoka Prefecture 59 years ago. He was detained for 47 years and seven months. According to his legal team, this is the largest amount of criminal compensation ever awarded.
TOP
Mie Large bus fatal accident Police: "Driver's cause of death was heart disease"
2025-03-24 18:45:00
On the 22nd, in Mihama-cho, Mie Prefecture, a large bus crashed into a windbreak on the side of the road, killing the driver and injuring 21 passengers. Police have investigated the cause of the driver's death and found that he had a heart condition. On the 24th, police searched the bus operator's office on suspicion of negligent driving causing injury, and are currently investigating further.
TOP
Atmospheric instability in western and eastern Japan through the 25th; beware of lightning, gusts of wind, and heavy rain
2025-03-24 18:43:00
Due to the influence of cold air and warm, humid air above, the atmospheric conditions in western and eastern Japan have become very unstable, causing localized thunderstorms. The unstable atmospheric conditions are expected to continue through the 25th, and the Japan Meteorological Agency is calling for caution against lightning strikes, tornadoes, and other violent gusts of wind, as well as sudden heavy rain.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Forest fire in Okayama City: Firefighting efforts continue, evacuation orders lifted
2025-03-24 18:41:00
On the 23rd, a forest fire broke out in the mountainous area of Minami-ku, Okayama City, and is still spreading more than a day later. However, the city has lifted all evacuation orders in some areas, saying that the fire has subsided and it is expected that it will be possible to prevent the fire from spreading to residential areas.
TOP
Rice prices continue to rise, more than double last year's level. How much will stockpiled rice prices fall?
2025-03-24 18:20:00
The price of rice continues to rise. The average price of rice at supermarkets nationwide was 4,172 yen (including tax) per 5 kg in the week ending March 16, more than double the price at the same time last year.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Forest fire in Ehime - Evacuation orders expanded in Imabari City
2025-03-24 18:08:00
A forest fire broke out in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture on the 23rd, and even now, a full day after it started, the fire continues to spread. In some places, the fire has reached the mountain behind houses, and firefighting efforts are underway. Imabari City issued an evacuation order to 334 households and 698 people in the Asakurakita district at 5:50 pm on the 24th.
TOP
Q&A: What is the "Minor Driver's License" system and how should I proceed?
2025-03-24 18:07:00
The "My Number License," which combines a My Number card and a driver's license, went into operation on the 24th. People were seen visiting driver's license centers around the country to complete the procedure, but on the other hand, there were problems such as being unable to complete the integration procedure, and problems were found with the app that reads the information on the "My Number License." We will explain how the "My Number License" works and points to note when applying.
TOP
Problems with the Minority Driver's License since its first implementation: Some people are unable to register
2025-03-24 18:04:00
The "My Number License," which combines the My Number Card and driver's license, began operation on the 24th, and people were seen visiting driver's license centers around the country to complete the procedure. However, there were also a series of problems, such as a system failure that made it impossible to complete the procedure and a glitch in the app that reads the "My Number License" information.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Forest fire in Okayama City: Firefighting efforts continue, evacuation orders lifted
2025-03-24 17:59:00
A forest fire broke out in the mountains of Minami-ku, Okayama City on the afternoon of the 23rd, and is still spreading, with firefighting efforts continuing. No injuries have been reported so far. Evacuation orders issued to 403 households in the two areas were all lifted at 5:30 p.m.
TOP
Shizuoka District Court awards 217 million yen in criminal compensation to Iwao Hakamada after he is found not guilty in retrial
2025-03-24 17:55:00
On the 24th, the Shizuoka District Court decided to award 217 million yen to Iwao Hakamada (89), who was found not guilty in a retrial for the murder of a family of four in Shizuoka Prefecture 59 years ago. He was detained for 47 years and seven months. According to his legal team, this is the largest amount of criminal compensation ever awarded.
TOP
New passports available from today, application procedures also online
2025-03-24 17:51:00
Starting with the 24th, passports have been changed to new ones with stronger anti-counterfeiting measures. In addition, the application process for obtaining a passport has been made online in all prefectures.
TOP
Governor of Fukui Prefecture approves review of Kansai Electric Power's plan to remove spent nuclear fuel
2025-03-24 17:45:00
On the 24th, Governor Sugimoto of Fukui Prefecture met with Kansai Electric Power Company President Nozomu Mori and Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Muto to convey his intention to approve a review of the plan to remove spent nuclear fuel from nuclear power plants in the prefecture. Approval of the plan is also a condition for the continued operation of three nuclear power plants that have been in operation for over 40 years, and as a result, the continued operation of these three plants will also be approved.
TOP
Japan Fair Trade Commission imposes fines of over 500 million yen on four companies for violating antitrust laws over multi-storey car park construction
2025-03-24 17:25:00
The Fair Trade Commission found that the five companies had violated the Antimonopoly Act by deciding in advance the companies and prices to which manufacturers would receive orders for the construction of mechanical equipment for multi-story parking lots at condominiums and buildings. The Commission issued cease and desist orders to the five companies, requiring them to prevent recurrence, and also ordered four of the companies to pay a total of more than 520 million yen in fines.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Ehime forest fire "Flames approaching houses" Evacuation orders issued in some areas
2025-03-24 17:03:00
A forest fire that broke out in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture on the 23rd is still spreading, and evacuation orders have been issued for parts of Imabari City and neighboring Saijo City.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Forest fire in Okayama spreads to six buildings, including houses, evacuation orders issued in some areas
2025-03-24 16:56:00
A forest fire broke out in the mountains of Minami-ku, Okayama City on the afternoon of the 23rd, and is still burning, with firefighting efforts continuing. No one has been injured so far, but the fire has spread to some buildings at the foot of the mountain, and Okayama City has issued an evacuation order for part of Minami-ku.
TOP
Q&A: What is the "Minor Driver's License" system and how should I proceed?
2025-03-24 16:55:00
The "My Number License," which combines a My Number card and a driver's license, went into operation on the 24th. People were seen visiting driver's license centers around the country to complete the procedure, but on the other hand, there were problems such as being unable to complete the integration procedure, and problems were found with the app that reads the information on the "My Number License." We will explain how the "My Number License" works and points to note when applying.
TOP
Problems with the Minority Driver's License since its first implementation: Some people are unable to register
2025-03-24 16:50:00
The "My Number License," which combines the My Number Card and driver's license, began operation on the 24th, and people were seen visiting driver's license centers around the country to complete the procedure. However, there were also a series of problems, such as a system failure that made it impossible to complete the procedure and a glitch in the app that reads the "My Number License" information.
TOP
Suspect begins detention for evaluation in case of murder of woman while streaming video
2025-03-24 16:32:00
A 42-year-old suspect who was arrested this month for allegedly killing a woman while she was streaming video on a street in Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward was placed under detention for evaluation to determine his criminal responsibility on the 24th.
TOP
Financial Services Agency considers injecting public funds into Noto Kyoei Shinkin Bank to help rebuild Ishikawa
2025-03-24 16:22:00
It has been learned that the Financial Services Agency is considering injecting public funds into the Noto Kyoei Shinkin Bank, which has its head office in Ishikawa Prefecture. This will be the first time that public funds have been injected into a financial institution in Ishikawa Prefecture in connection with the Noto Peninsula earthquake, and it is believed that the aim is to financially support the reconstruction of the region toward recovery.
TOP
Mie Large bus fatality and injury accident office searched on suspicion of negligent driving injury
2025-03-24 16:16:00
On the 22nd, a large bus crashed into a windbreak on the side of a national highway in Mihama Town, Mie Prefecture, killing the male driver and injuring 21 passengers. On the 24th, police searched the Saitama City office of Seibu Sightseeing Bus, the company that operated the bus and is headquartered in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture, on suspicion of negligent driving causing injury.
TOP
Eight people in Ishikawa Prefecture confirmed as disaster-related deaths in Noto Peninsula earthquake, bringing death toll to 557
2025-03-24 16:15:00
By the 24th, eight people who died in Ishikawa Prefecture after the Noto Peninsula earthquake were recognized by local governments as having died as disaster-related. The total number of disaster-related deaths from the Noto Peninsula earthquake in Niigata and Toyama prefectures combined is now 329, bringing the total death toll, including direct deaths, to 557.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Ehime forest fire: Evacuation orders issued for parts of Imabari and Saijo
2025-03-24 16:07:00
A forest fire that broke out in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture on the 23rd is still spreading, and evacuation orders have been issued for parts of Imabari City and neighboring Saijo City.
TOP
Q&A: What is the "Minor Driver's License" system and how should I proceed?
2025-03-24 15:50:00
The "My Number License," which combines a My Number card and a driver's license, went into operation on the 24th. People were quickly seen visiting driver's license centers around the country to complete the procedures, but there were also problems with the inability to complete the integration process, and glitches were found in the app that reads the information on the "My Number License." We will explain how the "My Number License" works and points to note when applying. (Information current as of 1:00 PM on the 24th)
TOP
Hyogo Prefectural Gubernatorial Election X's "Community Note" barely functions
2025-03-24 15:43:00
During last year's Hyogo Prefectural gubernatorial election, when the spread of fake and misinformation on social media became an issue, the research group's analysis found that the "Community Notes" feature on X, the former Twitter account, which allows users to supplement erroneous content with additional information, was barely functioning.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Forest fire in Okayama spreads to six buildings, including houses, evacuation orders issued in some areas
2025-03-24 15:22:00
A forest fire broke out in the mountains of Minami-ku, Okayama City on the afternoon of the 23rd, and is still burning, with firefighting efforts continuing. No one has been injured so far, but the fire has spread to some buildings at the foot of the mountain, and Okayama City has issued an evacuation order for part of Minami-ku.
TOP
[Q&A] The Self-Defense Forces' "Joint Operations Headquarters" is launched. What will change? Why?
2025-03-24 15:07:00
The newly established "Joint Operations Headquarters" of the Self-Defense Forces. We have summarized what kind of organization it is and what changes it will have from the past.
TOP
Yellow sand to hit wide area from tomorrow to the day after tomorrow, Japan Meteorological Agency urges caution
2025-03-24 14:40:00
Yellow sand has been observed in mainland China, and is expected to reach a wide area from western to northern Japan between the 25th and 26th. The Japan Meteorological Agency is calling for caution against yellow sand adhesion and its impact on traffic.
TOP
Cherry blossoms bloom in Tokyo on average, five days earlier than last year
2025-03-24 14:07:00
The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on the afternoon of the 24th that "cherry blossoms have bloomed in Tokyo." According to the agency, more than five flowers were confirmed to have bloomed at around 2:00 p.m. on the Somei Yoshino cherry tree at Yasukuni Shrine in Chiyoda Ward, which is the benchmark for cherry blossom blooming in Tokyo. The announcement of cherry blossom blooming in Tokyo was ▽ the same as in an average year ▽ five days earlier than last year.
TOP
Tottori Prefecture passes ordinance amendment bill banning "sexual deep fakes"
2025-03-24 14:03:00
On the 24th, the prefectural assembly passed an amendment to the Tottori Prefecture Youth Healthy Development Ordinance, which includes a ban on "sexual deep fakes," which use AI technology to edit children's facial photos and other data into obscene images and videos.
TOP
Experts' panel makes final recommendations on reforms to resolve shortage of national civil servants
2025-03-24 13:52:00
A panel of experts discussing measures to address the shortage of national civil servants has drawn up final recommendations, stating that reforms must be implemented to enable public service personnel to achieve maximum results, including concrete measures such as raising the salaries of employees at the section chief and office director levels to a level that is comparable to the external labor market.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Ehime forest fire: Evacuation orders issued for parts of Imabari and Saijo
2025-03-24 13:49:00
A forest fire that broke out in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture on the 23rd is still spreading, and evacuation orders have been issued for parts of Imabari City and neighboring Saijo City.
TOP
First day of Minoru Driver's License: Problems with dedicated app, system failure in Aichi
2025-03-24 13:43:00
The My Number Card, which combines a My Number card and a driver's license, became available to obtain on the 24th, and people were already seen visiting driver's license centers to complete the procedure. According to the National Police Agency, a bug was found in the app that users use to read the driver's license information.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Forest fire in Okayama spreads to six buildings, including houses, evacuation orders issued in some areas
2025-03-24 13:41:00
A forest fire broke out in the mountains of Minami-ku, Okayama City on the afternoon of the 23rd, and is still burning, with firefighting efforts continuing. No one has been injured so far, but the fire has spread to some buildings at the foot of the mountain, and Okayama City has issued an evacuation order for part of Minami-ku.
TOP
China Coast Guard vessel intrudes into Japanese territorial waters off the Senkaku Islands, Okinawa, for the longest time ever
2025-03-24 13:20:00
A China Coast Guard vessel that entered Japanese territorial waters off the coast of the Senkaku Islands in Okinawa Prefecture on the 21st of this month continued to navigate within the territorial waters on the 24th. The duration of the intrusion into Japanese territorial waters exceeded the previous record of 80 hours and 36 minutes, and is the longest since the government nationalized the Senkaku Islands in 2012.
TOP
Full-scale restoration work begins on Noto Airport's runway and other major facilities
2025-03-24 13:07:00
Full-scale restoration work began on the 24th at Noto Airport in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, which was severely damaged in the Noto Peninsula earthquake, including major facilities such as the runway.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Ehime forest fire: Evacuation orders issued for parts of Imabari and Saijo
2025-03-24 12:34:00
A forest fire that broke out in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture on the 23rd is still spreading, and evacuation orders have been issued for parts of Imabari City and neighboring Saijo City.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Forest fire in Okayama spreads to six buildings, including houses, evacuation orders issued in some areas
2025-03-24 12:21:00
A forest fire broke out in the mountains of Minami-ku, Okayama City on the afternoon of the 23rd, and is still burning, with firefighting efforts continuing. No one has been injured so far, but the fire has spread to some buildings at the foot of the mountain, and Okayama City has issued an evacuation order for part of Minami-ku.
TOP
The Self-Defense Forces' "Joint Operations Command" is launched to unify the command of the Ground, Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces.
2025-03-24 11:55:00
The Joint Operations Command, which will unify the command of the Ground, Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces, was launched on the 24th, and its first commander took up his post. The Ministry of Defense says this will lead to swift operation of forces and strengthened cooperation with the US military.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Forest fire in Okayama spreads to six buildings, including houses, evacuation orders issued in some areas
2025-03-24 11:54:00
A forest fire broke out in the mountains of Minami-ku, Okayama City on the afternoon of the 23rd, and is still burning, with firefighting efforts continuing. No one has been injured so far, but the fire has spread to some buildings at the foot of the mountain, and Okayama City has issued an evacuation order for part of Minami-ku.
TOP
"My Number License" begins operation, some problems with dedicated app
2025-03-24 11:54:00
The My Number Card, which combines a My Number card and a driver's license, became available to obtain on the 24th, and people were already seen visiting driver's license centers to complete the procedure. According to the National Police Agency, a bug was found in the app that users use to read the driver's license information.
TOP
Earthquake Alert: Magnitude 3 earthquake hits Niigata and Nagano prefectures, no risk of tsunami
2025-03-24 11:52:00
At around 11:37 a.m. on the 24th, an earthquake measuring 3 on the Japanese seismic intensity scale was observed in Niigata and Nagano prefectures. There is no need to worry about a tsunami caused by this earthquake.
TOP
Atmospheric conditions unstable in Kyushu and Chugoku regions; beware of lightning and gusts of wind
2025-03-24 11:47:00
Due to the influence of cold air and warm, humid air above, rain clouds have developed locally in Kyushu and the Chugoku region, causing thunderstorms. The atmospheric conditions are expected to become very unstable mainly in Western and Eastern Japan through the 25th, and the Japan Meteorological Agency is calling for caution against lightning strikes, tornadoes, and other violent gusts of wind, as well as sudden heavy rain.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Ehime forest fire: Evacuation orders issued for parts of Imabari and Saijo
2025-03-24 11:40:00
A forest fire that broke out in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture on the 23rd is still spreading, and evacuation orders have been issued for parts of Imabari City and neighboring Saijo City.
TOP
[Updated regularly] Forest fire in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture Evacuation orders issued for parts of Imabari and Saijo
2025-03-24 11:17:00
A forest fire that broke out in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture on the 23rd is still spreading, and evacuation orders have been issued for parts of Imabari City and neighboring Saijo City.
TOP
Mie Large bus fatality and injury accident office searched on suspicion of negligent driving injury
2025-03-24 11:09:00
On the 22nd, a large bus crashed into a windbreak on the side of a national highway in Mihama Town, Mie Prefecture, killing the male driver and injuring 21 passengers. On the 24th, police are searching the Saitama City office of Seibu Tourist Bus, the company that operated the bus and is headquartered in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture, on suspicion of negligent driving causing injury. The police will analyze the documents they have seized and investigate the working conditions of the bus driver and whether there were any problems with the company's safety management.
TOP
"My Number Driver's License" goes into operation, but glitches already found in some of the dedicated apps
2025-03-24 10:29:00
The National Police Agency announced that a bug was found in the app that users use to read driver's license information on the My Number Card, which was launched on the 24th and combines the My Number Card and driver's license. The smartphone app has already been fixed, but it is expected to take several days to fix the PC app.
TOP
Forest fire in Okayama City's Minami Ward spreads to six buildings, including houses, evacuation orders issued to some areas
2025-03-24 10:17:00
A forest fire broke out in the Minami Ward of Okayama City on the afternoon of the 23rd, and is still burning, with firefighting efforts continuing. No one has been injured so far, but the fire has spread to some buildings at the foot of the mountain, and Okayama City has issued an evacuation order for part of Minami Ward.
TOP
Forest fire in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture Evacuation orders in parts of Imabari and Saijo affecting transportation
2025-03-24 09:33:00
A forest fire broke out in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture on the 23rd, and firefighting efforts are ongoing. Evacuation orders have been issued in parts of Imabari City and the neighboring city of Saijo, and transportation has also been affected.
TOP
Forest fire in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture Evacuation orders in parts of Imabari and Saijo affecting transportation
2025-03-24 09:12:00
A forest fire broke out in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture on the 23rd, and firefighting efforts are ongoing. Evacuation orders have been issued in parts of Imabari City and the neighboring city of Saijo, and transportation has also been affected.
TOP
"My Number Driver's License" goes into operation, but glitches already found in some of the dedicated apps
2025-03-24 08:58:00
The National Police Agency has announced that a problem has been found in the app that allows users to read license information from the card, the My Number Card, which combines a My Number card and a driver's license and went into operation on the 24th. The agency is currently investigating the exact cause of the problem, as it has become impossible to correctly display images of vehicles such as regular motorcycles. The smartphone app has already been fixed, but it is expected to take several days to fix the PC app.
TOP
Forest fire in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture Evacuation orders in parts of Imabari and Saijo affecting transportation
2025-03-24 07:51:00
A forest fire broke out in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture on the 23rd, and firefighting efforts are ongoing. Evacuation orders have been issued in parts of Imabari City and the neighboring city of Saijo, and transportation has also been affected.
TOP
Forest fire in Okayama City's Minami Ward spreads to six buildings, including houses, evacuation orders issued to some areas
2025-03-24 07:42:00
A forest fire broke out in the Minami Ward of Okayama City on the afternoon of the 23rd, and is still burning, with firefighting efforts continuing. No one has been injured so far, but the fire has spread to some buildings at the foot of the mountain, and Okayama City has issued an evacuation order for part of Minami Ward.
TOP
Atmospheric conditions unstable from Chugoku to Kanto-Koshinetsu region: Beware of lightning and gusts of wind
2025-03-24 07:21:00
Due to the influence of cold air and warm, humid air above, the atmospheric conditions are expected to be extremely unstable from now until the 25th, mainly in the Chugoku region through the Kanto-Koshinetsu region. The Japan Meteorological Agency is calling for caution against strong gusts of wind such as lightning and tornadoes, and sudden heavy rain.
TOP
Ishigaki Aviation Weather Observatory Director Driving After Drinking, Responding to Night-time Shift
2025-03-24 07:13:00
It was revealed through interviews with the Japan Meteorological Agency that the director of an aviation weather observation station that conducts weather observations at New Ishigaki Airport in Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture, was driving a car to work after drinking alcohol at night last year. The general incorporated foundation to which the director belongs took disciplinary action in the form of a warning, but did not report it to the Japan Meteorological Agency.
TOP
Forest fire in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture Evacuation orders in parts of Imabari and Saijo affecting transportation
2025-03-24 06:52:00
A forest fire broke out in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture on the 23rd, and firefighting efforts have been ongoing through the night, but the fire is still spreading. Evacuation orders have been issued in parts of Imabari City and the neighboring city of Saijo, and transportation has also been affected.
TOP
Forest fire in Okayama City's Minami Ward spreads to six buildings, including houses, evacuation orders issued to some areas
2025-03-24 06:49:00
A forest fire broke out in the Minami Ward of Okayama City on the afternoon of the 23rd, and is still burning, with firefighting efforts continuing. No one has been injured so far, but the fire has spread to some buildings at the foot of the mountain, and Okayama City has issued an evacuation order for part of Minami Ward.
TOP
Applications for new passports with enhanced anti-counterfeiting measures begin today
2025-03-24 06:11:00
Applications for new passports with strengthened anti-counterfeiting measures will begin on the 24th. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is urging people to apply early, as the change will result in longer issuance times.
TOP
Elementary school student who passed the "exchange witness" exam begins activities to pass on the experience of the Nagasaki atomic bombing
2025-03-24 05:59:00
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the war, and the issue of how to pass on memories of the war has become an issue. A fourth-grade elementary school student in Tokyo has become the youngest person ever to pass the audition to become a "community witness" who will inherit and pass on the experiences of Nagasaki atomic bomb survivors, and he began sharing his experience in March.
TOP
Oita Takasakiyama Monkey Popularity Poll: Female Monkey Who Made a Miraculous Recovery Wins
2025-03-24 04:47:00
The results of a popularity vote by visitors to Takasakiyama Natural Zoo in Oita City, where wild monkeys are fed, were announced, with "Miracle," a female monkey who made a miraculous recovery after being unable to move, taking first place for the first time.
TOP
Shizuoka to Mie offshore Earthquake Early Warning System Update May Delay Between the 24th and 26th
2025-03-24 04:41:00
Work to update the system for observing earthquakes and tsunamis occurring in the Nankai Trough will be carried out for three days starting from the 24th. During this period, the Japan Meteorological Agency is calling for caution, as there is a risk that the issuance of emergency earthquake alerts may be delayed if an earthquake occurs off the coast of Shizuoka Prefecture to Mie Prefecture.
TOP
"Minor Driver's License" can be obtained from today. Be careful about the timing of obtaining it.
2025-03-24 04:38:00
The "My Number Card," which combines your My Number card and driver's license, will be available to obtain from the 24th. While this card has the added benefit of making it easier to change your address, you should be careful about the timing of when you obtain it.
TOP
The Self-Defense Forces' "Joint Operations Command" is launched to unify the command of the Ground, Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces.
2025-03-24 04:36:00
The Joint Operations Command, which will unify the command of the Ground, Maritime and Air Self-Defense Forces, was launched on the 24th. The Ministry of Defense says this will lead to faster unit operations and stronger cooperation with the US military.
TOP
Two people killed in house fire in Urayasu, Chiba; identity verification underway
2025-03-24 01:30:00
On the 23rd, a house in Urayasu City, Chiba Prefecture, burned down and two bodies were found in the ruins. Police believe that the bodies are the two people who lived in the house and could not be contacted after the fire, and are currently investigating.
TOP
Osaka: A car driven by an 84-year-old man crashes into a store, injuring seven people
2025-03-24 00:14:00
On the evening of the 23rd, a minivan was rear-ended by a passenger car in Higashisumiyoshi Ward, Osaka, and crashed into a nearby store, injuring seven people, including pedestrians. Police have arrested the 84-year-old driver of the car on suspicion of negligent driving causing injury, and are currently investigating the details of the incident.
TOP
