Japan Iwate wildfire evacuations have been ordered for more than 3,200 people as hundreds of firefighters battle forest blazes in northern Japan’s mountainous Iwate region. The fires broke out three days ago near the town of Otsuchi and had burned about 700 hectares, or 1,730 acres, by Saturday morning, according to local government officials.
Authorities urged more than 3,200 residents to leave their homes as smoke rose across the valley near Otsuchi. The smell of burning was reportedly detected up to 30 kilometres away. At least eight buildings have been burned, but officials said residents had evacuated. No casualties were reported.
More than 1,300 firefighters, along with Japan Self-Defence Forces personnel, were expected to join the firefighting operation on Saturday. Around a dozen helicopters were also mobilised to drop water over the burning forest. In Otsuchi, fire engines sprayed water on forested areas near homes as crews worked to stop the flames from spreading further into residential areas.
Weather remains a major challenge for emergency crews. No rain is forecast over the coming week, increasing concern that the fires could continue to spread. One resident told public broadcaster NHK that he hoped rain would help firefighters contain the blazes. Officials said they were continuing efforts to extinguish the fires and would provide further updates.
The latest fires come after a major blaze in Ofunato, also in Iwate, became Japan’s worst wildfire in more than half a century last year.
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Officials and scientists have warned that increasingly dry winters can raise wildfire risks. Climate change is also expected to lengthen and intensify drought periods, creating conditions that allow forest fires to spread faster.
The situation remains active, with helicopters, ground crews and Self-Defence Forces personnel continuing to work near Otsuchi. Authorities are focusing on protecting homes, preventing further damage and keeping residents away from danger zones.
