Thousands evacuated as Japan battles largest forest fire in decades
More than 2,000 firefighters have been deployed to combat Japan’s largest forest fire in 30 years, which continues to burn near Ofunato in northern part of the country.
This was disclosed on Monday by the Fire and Disaster Management Agency (FDMA).
The blaze, which began on Thursday, has already scorched over 5,200 acres of forest in Iwate Prefecture. At least one person has died, and more than 80 buildings have been damaged, though officials say assessments are ongoing.
Approximately 4,600 residents remain under evacuation orders, with 1,200 seeking refuge in temporary shelters and another 2,000 staying with friends or family.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressed the crisis in parliament, stating:
“Although it is inevitable that the fire will spread to some extent, we will take all possible measures to ensure there will be no impact on people’s homes.”
Ofunato’s typically dry season from January to March has been made worse by record-low rainfall. Last month, the region recorded just 2.5 millimeters of rain — significantly below the average of 41 millimeters — making the area particularly vulnerable to wildfires.
More than 16 helicopters are assisting ground crews, with aerial footage showing aircraft dropping water over the smoldering hills.
Firefighting teams from 14 prefectures, including Tokyo, have been mobilized to contain the spreading flames.
The fire comes after 2024 was recorded as Japan’s hottest year since records began, reflecting a broader pattern of rising global temperatures contributing to extreme weather events.