- Japan’s largest wildfire in five decades rages in Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture.
- The fire has consumed 2,600 hectares, forcing nearly 4,000 evacuations.
- Firefighters and military helicopters are battling the flames.
- Dry weather and record-low rainfall have intensified the crisis.
- Businesses and communities are offering aid to affected residents.
Firefighters in Japan are battling the country’s worst wildfire in 50 years. The blaze began in a forested area near Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture, on February 26, 2025. Since then, it has consumed 2,600 hectares (6,400 acres) of land, making it Japan’s largest wildfire since 1975.
Authorities have issued evacuation advisories for nearly 4,600 people, with 3,939 already displaced. The fire, fueled by dry weather and strong winds, has destroyed at least 80 buildings. Officials remain concerned about the fire’s spread, although they do not expect it to reach densely populated areas.
Wildfire Rages as Firefighters Battle Harsh Conditions
More than 2,000 firefighters, including teams from Tokyo, are battling the massive wildfire. Fire and disaster management teams are working tirelessly, using helicopters and ground crews to contain the flames. However, the dry conditions are making things worse. Despite their best efforts, the fire keeps spreading, putting more homes and businesses at risk.
Meanwhile, officials are hopeful that the expected rain or snow will bring some relief. However, the fire remains a serious threat, and no one can predict how long it will last. For now, authorities are keeping a close eye on the situation and making sure emergency response plans are ready if conditions get worse.
This wildfire follows Japan’s hottest summer on record, which has increased the chances of extreme weather. Ofunato saw record-low rainfall in February, with only 2.5 millimeters (0.1 inches) of rain. Normally, the area gets around 41 millimeters that month. Because of this extreme dryness, the fire has been able to spread quickly and with little resistance.
At the same time, the fire is creating serious problems for local businesses. Taiheiyo Cement, a major company in the area, has shut down operations at its Ofunato plant due to the evacuation advisory. Other businesses are on high alert, fearing that the fire could force them to close if it spreads any further.
On a positive note, relief efforts for displaced residents are well underway. Japanese baseball star Roki Sasaki, a former Ofunato high school student, has stepped up to help. He donated 10 million yen ($67,000) and 500 sets of bedding. Meanwhile, local organizations and volunteers are also pitching in, making sure evacuees have food, shelter, and other necessities.
Historical Context and Future Precautions
This wildfire is even bigger than Japan’s last major fire, which burned 2,700 hectares in 1975 in Hokkaido’s Kushiro region. Even though the number of wildfires has dropped since the 1970s, Japan still sees about 1,300 fires every year. Most of them happen between February and April, when dry weather makes fires spread easily.
Experts say Japan needs better wildfire prevention. Stronger forest management and faster emergency response could help control future fires. On top of that, climate change is making wildfires worse everywhere. If things don’t change, these disasters will only happen more often.
Right now, Japan’s biggest wildfire in 50 years is still burning, and firefighters are working nonstop. Dry weather and climate change have made things even worse, forcing thousands to leave their homes. Authorities and local communities are stepping in to help, but the fire is still a big threat to businesses and the environment.