A massive wildfire is burning in northeastern Japan, forcing thousands to evacuate and destroying dozens of homes.
The fire broke out in the coastal city of Ofunato, in Iwate Prefecture, and has spread across more than 5,200 acres since February 27. It is the largest wildfire Japan has faced in three decades.
More than 2,000 firefighters and 16 helicopters have been sent to battle the flames. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has promised that the government will do everything possible to protect people’s homes. About 4,600 residents were told to evacuate, with 2,000 staying with relatives or friends and over 1,200 moving into shelters. Tragically, one person has died, and at least 80 buildings have been damaged.
Experts say the fire has been made worse by extreme dry conditions. Japan experienced its hottest year on record in 2024, and Ofunato saw its driest February in more than 20 years. Scientists are unsure if climate change directly caused this fire, but they warn that rising temperatures and drier conditions are making wildfires more likely worldwide.
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