Japan Witnesses Worst Wildfire in 30 Years: 1 Dead, Thousands Evacuated Amid Fierce Blaze- wna24
Japan is battling its worst wildfire in more than three decades | Image:
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Tokyo: Japan is battling its worst wildfire in more than three decades. According to local media reports, the flames have spread across approximately 1,200 hectares of forest in Ofunato, located in the northern region of Iwate.
Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency stated that the fire first erupted on Wednesday, and authorities are still working to contain the blaze.
At least one person has died, and thousands have been forced to evacuate as the massive fire continues to rage. A burned body was discovered by local police on Thursday.
More than 80 buildings have been affected, and approximately 1,700 firefighters have been mobilized from across Japan to combat the fire.
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Japan’s Largest Wildfire in Decades
The exact cause of the fire remains unknown. Aerial footage captured thick white smoke billowing over the mountains as military helicopters worked to douse the flames from above.
A spokesperson from the Fire and Disaster Management Agency in Kushiro, Hokkaido, stated that officials are still examining the total affected area. However, it is the largest wildfire recorded in Japan since 1992.
On Saturday, two additional fires were reported—one in Yamanashi and another in Iwate.
Rescue operations have intensified, with over 2,000 residents seeking refuge with friends and relatives, while more than 1,200 have taken shelter in emergency facilities.
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Rising Wildfire Concerns Amid Climate Change
Japan experienced approximately 1,300 wildfires in 2023, with most occurring between February and April, when dry air and strong winds create high-risk conditions.
According to government data, the number of wildfires has declined since peaking in the 1970s.
Ofunato has received just 2.5 millimeters of rainfall this month, putting it on track to break the previous record low of 4.4 millimeters recorded in February 1967.
Meanwhile, Japan recorded its hottest year in history in 2023, aligning with global trends as rising greenhouse gas emissions continue to drive climate change.