Japan Battles Largest Wildfire in Decades, Thousands Evacuated

The Ofunato wildfire in Iwate Prefecture has burned over 5,200 acres, driven by record dry conditions and last year’s extreme heat.

More than 2,000 firefighters, supported by military helicopters, are working to contain Japan’s largest forest fire in over 30 years.
The blaze, which began near Ofunato city, has consumed 5,200 acres and damaged at least 84 buildings, with assessments ongoing.
Approximately 4,600 residents remain under evacuation advisories, with over 1,200 sheltering in evacuation centers and others staying with relatives or friends.
The wildfire follows record low rainfall in February and Japan’s hottest summer on record, highlighting the role of climate change in intensifying such disasters.
Officials are prioritizing efforts to protect homes and critical infrastructure, though strong winds and dry conditions have complicated containment efforts.