Japan’s Worst Wildfire in 50 Years Brought Under Control

TOKYO, 9 March 2025 (BSS/AFP) – Japan’s most devastating wildfire in over half a century, which claimed at least one life and forced thousands to evacuate, has been successfully brought under control, the mayor of Ofunato announced on Sunday.

The blaze, which erupted in the mountainous rural areas of Iwate Prefecture on 26 February, had burned for nearly two weeks, destroying at least 210 buildings and displacing over 4,200 residents, according to local officials.

“Following an aerial survey, we have determined that the fire no longer poses a risk of further spread. I officially declare that the fire is now under control,” Ofunato Mayor Kiyoshi Fuchigami stated at a press conference.

The wildfire consumed approximately 2,900 hectares (7,170 acres)—an area nearly half the size of Manhattan—making it the largest in Japan in over five decades. It surpassed the 2,700-hectare fire that broke out on Hokkaido Island in 1975.

Firefighting efforts were aided by rainfall that began on Wednesday, following an extended dry spell that had exacerbated conditions. February saw record-low rainfall in Ofunato, with just 2.5 millimetres (0.1 inch) recorded—far below the average of 41 millimetres and even lower than the previous record of 4.4 millimetres in 1967.

Rising Climate Challenges in Japan

Japan experienced its hottest summer on record in 2024, as climate change continues to drive global temperature increases. The combination of extreme heat and prolonged dry conditions has intensified the risk of wildfires across the country.

Historically, Japan has seen a decline in wildfire occurrences since their peak in the 1970s. However, wildfires remain a significant seasonal hazard, particularly between February and May when dry air and strong winds create ideal conditions for flames to spread. In recent years, Japan has averaged around 1,300 wildfires annually.

With climate patterns becoming more unpredictable, authorities are increasingly prioritising advanced fire prevention strategies, including improved satellite monitoring, early detection systems, and community-based fire safety initiatives.