Bear sightings reported in Miyagi and Akita prefectures

Multiple bear sightings have been reported in Japan's Miyagi and Akita prefectures. In Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture, a bear approximately one meter in length was spotted by a driver on the Sanriku Expressway near Katahama Park around 5:55 AM on October 19. Kesennuma has been under a bear warning since October 14 following a series of sightings.

In Daisen, Akita Prefecture, students at Nishisenboku Junior High School discovered a bear about one meter long on the school grounds near an athletic field around 4:15 PM on October 18. The animal retreated into the forested area to the north of the campus. No injuries were reported in either incident, and local police are patrolling the areas and advising residents to remain vigilant.