On April 6, 2025, officials at the 2025 World Exposition site in Japan responded swiftly to a dangerous methane leak. The gas was detected in an underground electrical equipment pit in the Green World (GW) area, which is located on the west side of the expo site. The concentration of methane briefly exceeded levels that could have caused an explosion if ignited.
According to the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, the leak was first reported at approximately 4 p.m. Firefighters and staff from the association were immediately dispatched to measure the gas levels in the pit. Methane was confirmed to be present in high concentrations, prompting immediate action to prevent any risk to the public and workers.
By 4:30 p.m., the surrounding area was cordoned off to ensure public safety. The cover of the equipment pit was also opened to allow for natural ventilation and reduce the gas concentration. By 5:30 p.m., the situation improved. The methane levels dropped below the threshold that would require the evacuation of personnel from the area.
The incident on April 6 was particularly concerning given a similar event in March 2024. At that time, methane gas had accumulated in a plumbing pit beneath a restroom floor in the same GW area. The methane buildup led to an explosion, causing a significant safety concern. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in either of these incidents. However, the explosion in 2024 raised alarms about the potential hazards posed by methane accumulation at the expo site.
In response to these incidents, the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition had already implemented several safety measures. The association invested 3.2 billion yen (approximately $22 million) in countermeasures to prevent future occurrences. These efforts included the installation of advanced ventilation systems in buildings throughout the GW area, designed to mitigate the risks associated with methane accumulation.
The 2025 World Exposition, scheduled to be one of the largest global events of the year, has attracted significant attention for its ambitious plans. The expo site covers a large area, and ensuring the safety of workers and visitors remains a top priority. The association’s swift response to the recent methane leak demonstrates its commitment to addressing these challenges head-on.
While the leak was contained without incident, it serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by gas accumulation in confined spaces. The methane levels detected on April 6 were high enough to raise concerns about the possibility of an explosion, a scenario that could have had devastating consequences. Although the gas concentration returned to safe levels by the evening, the association’s quick actions prevented a much worse outcome.
In addition to the technical measures taken by the association, the 2025 World Expo has placed a strong emphasis on safety protocols for its staff. Workers are trained to recognize and respond to potential hazards, such as gas leaks, ensuring that they can act swiftly in emergency situations. This ongoing training is part of a broader safety strategy designed to protect both workers and visitors during the event.
Despite these precautions, the recent methane leak has prompted calls for even greater vigilance. Some experts have raised concerns about the potential for further gas buildup in other areas of the site. They recommend additional safety checks and monitoring systems to prevent any future incidents.
The Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition has assured the public that it will continue to improve safety measures as the event draws closer. The association is also working closely with local authorities and experts to ensure that all potential risks are mitigated before the expo opens to the public. Given the scale and importance of the event, the association is committed to creating a safe environment for everyone involved.
The 2025 World Exposition is expected to attract millions of visitors from around the world. With just over a year to go before the event begins, safety remains a top concern for the organizers. The recent methane leak highlights the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive safety measures in large-scale public events.
The association’s response to the leak has been praised for its efficiency and speed. By quickly identifying and addressing the problem, officials were able to prevent any harm to workers or visitors. Nevertheless, the event organizers are well aware that more must be done to ensure safety at every stage of the expo’s development.
As preparations continue for the 2025 World Exposition, the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition is taking every necessary step to avoid future safety issues. The recent methane leak incident, while resolved without incident, underscores the ongoing challenges associated with hosting a major international event. Moving forward, the association is committed to ensuring that the expo site remains safe and secure for all who attend.
