A wildfire in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, has led to the evacuation of over a thousand residents and resulted in at least one fatality. As of March 1, 2025, approximately 2,500 firefighters are combating the blaze, which has spread across 1,400 hectares (3,000 acres) in the Ofunato forest.
- Wildfire in Iwate evacuates over 1,000 people
- At least one fatality reported
- Firefighters battling blaze with 17 helicopters
- Fire has spread across 1,400 hectares
- Ofunato experiences unusual dry spell
- Japan's hottest year linked to climate change
The wildfire, which began on February 26, has prompted local authorities to advise around 4,600 residents to seek shelter. As of Friday, more than 1,000 individuals had been evacuated, and over 80 buildings were reported damaged. The fire has also resulted in power outages affecting more than 700 households in Ofunato and the nearby village of Sanriku. Train services between these locations have been suspended for the day.
Ofunato is currently facing an unusual dry spell, receiving only 2.5 millimeters (0.1 inches) of rainfall this month, significantly below the previous record low of 4.4 millimeters set in 1967. The dry conditions have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. Additionally, two other wildfires are burning in Yamanashi and another area of Iwate.
Last year marked Japan’s hottest year on record, a trend mirrored in many countries due to climate change driven by greenhouse gas emissions. This ongoing climate crisis is likely a factor in the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires across the region. The Fire and Disaster Management Agency continues to monitor the situation closely as firefighting efforts continue.
The wildfire in Iwate Prefecture underscores the growing challenges posed by extreme weather conditions. With firefighting efforts ongoing, the situation remains critical for affected residents and emergency services alike.
