Japan’s worst wildfire in over 30 years forced more than a thousand people to evacuate. According to reports, the fire has already consumed 1,200 hectares of forest in Ofunato, a northern city in Iwate Prefecture. The Fire and Disaster Management Agency reported that the blaze started on Wednesday, and firefighters are working tirelessly to contain it.

Officials Confirm Largest Wildfire Since 1992

A fire agency spokesperson stated, "We’re still examining the size of the affected area, but it is the biggest since the 1992 wildfire [in Kushiro, Hokkaido]." The previous record stood at 1,030 hectares, but this fire has surpassed that. In response, officials quickly deployed 1,700 firefighters from across Japan to battle the flames.

One Fatality Confirmed, Cause Still Unknown

According to NHK, authorities found one person dead in the blaze. Meanwhile, more than 1,000 residents have evacuated, and at least 80 buildings have suffered damage as of Friday. Firefighters continue their efforts to contain the inferno, but the cause remains unknown. However, investigations are underway.

More Wildfires Burn Across Japan

Reports confirm that two other wildfires are burning—one in Yamanashi and another elsewhere in Iwate. Japan regularly faces wildfires, especially between February and April, when dry conditions and strong winds fuel rapid spread. In 2023 alone, the country recorded approximately 1,300 wildfires. However, government data shows that wildfire frequency has declined since peaking in the 1970s.

Climate Change and Record Temperatures Increase Fire Risks

Ofunato has received only 2.5mm (0.1 inches) of rain this February, far below the previous record low of 4.4mm in 1967. Last year, Japan experienced its hottest temperature on record, aligning with global warming trends fueled by greenhouse gas emissions. As extreme weather conditions continue, experts warn that wildfires may become even more common in the future.