The wildfire situation in Otsuchi city, Iwate Prefecture, northeastern Japan, remains severe. The fire has recently destroyed seven residential buildings and damaged approximately 1,250 rai of forest. Authorities have ordered nearly 2,000 residents to evacuate.
The wildfire in Otsuchi city, Iwate Prefecture, northeastern Japan, continues to rage after fires broke out simultaneously at two locations since the afternoon of 22 April. The flames have spread continuously into forested areas and residential buildings, with the two main fire sites located in the Kosuji and Kirikiri neighborhoods, about 10 kilometers apart.
A press briefing by Otsuchi city officials this morning (23 April) stated that the flames spread rapidly due to dry weather conditions and strong winds, resulting in approximately 1,250 rai of damage—1,112 rai in Kirikiri and 144 rai in Kosuji. Seven buildings have been damaged by fire, including one residential house.
Authorities have issued evacuation orders covering more than 1,884 residents from about 900 households. Recent reports indicate that in some areas, the flames have approached residential homes to within just 100 meters.
The Japanese government has established a coordination center at the Prime Minister's Office and deployed helicopters from the Self-Defense Forces as well as from neighboring prefectures Akita and Aomori to support aerial firefighting efforts alongside local firefighters.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi posted on the platform X expressing concern for residents and gratitude to the emergency personnel. She emphasized that agencies prioritize evacuation and public safety and ordered rapid dissemination of information, especially as officials monitor potential aftershocks following recent earthquakes.
Otsuchi Mayor Komizo Hirano stated that the situation remains fluid and urged residents to closely follow updates. He expressed concern that the fire may persist for a long time due to the difficult-to-access terrain and shortages of water sources in some areas.