A wildfire spreads in Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture, Japan, on March 3, 2025. CNN
A raging forest fire in Japan has destroyed dozens of homes and forced over a thousand people to evacuate in a northeastern coastal city. The fire began on Wednesday in Ofunato and has already burned around 2,100 hectares (5,190 acres) of land, according to officials.
Authorities reported that at least 84 homes have been damaged. More than 2,000 firefighters and troops from across the country are working to bring the fire under control. Some areas have seen a reduction in flames, but the situation remains dangerous.
A tragic incident occurred on Thursday when a man was found dead on a road. Officials are investigating if his death was linked to the fire.
The region, including Ofunato, has experienced an extremely dry winter. According to Japan’s weather agency, this winter has been the driest since 1946, when they first began recording weather data. The lack of rain and strong winds have made it difficult to contain the fire.
Residents who were forced to flee are staying in temporary shelters. Many have lost their homes and belongings. Some people have returned to check on their properties, only to find them reduced to ashes.
A heartbreaking scene unfolded in Ofunato as a woman cried while watching her village burn. The fire has left many families uncertain about their future.
Firefighters are using helicopters and water trucks to slow the spread of the flames. However, changing wind directions are making their job even harder. Officials are urging residents to stay alert and follow evacuation orders.
Experts believe the fire could take days to fully extinguish. Authorities are also warning about the risk of more wildfires if dry conditions continue. They are asking people to avoid activities that could spark new fires.
This disaster has reminded many of past wildfires in Japan, which have increased in recent years due to changing weather patterns. Officials are now discussing ways to improve fire prevention and emergency response in the future.
