A massive wildfire in northeastern Japan has been declared contained after devastating 12 days, with damage reports including at least 210 buildings across Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture. The fire, which ignited on February 26, burned approximately 2,900 hectares of land, equivalent to 9 percent of the city. Local government officials confirmed on Sunday, March 9, 2025, there is no longer any risk of the fire spreading.
Despite the recent containment announcement, evacuation orders are still enforced for 2,424 residents from 979 households, primarily affecting the entire Sanrikucho Ryori district and three areas of the Akasakicho district. These orders are expected to be lifted by noon on March 10, according to city authorities.
Ofunato Mayor Kiyoshi Fuchigami spoke about the situation at a press briefing, stating, "Based on aerial reconnaissance, we have determined there is no risk of the fire spreading any longer. Moving forward, we will focus on supporting the victims and staying alert to make sure the fire is fully extinguished." This declaration has provided some relief to evacuees, who have experienced anxiety over their homes and properties during the intense firefighting efforts.
At the peak of the crisis, evacuation orders had been issued for 4,596 residents across 1,896 households. Gradually, as rainfall helped retard the flames, local officials began lifting some of the evacuation orders starting from March 7. Nevertheless, the destruction remains significant as damage assessments reveal 102 homes lost, 76 of which were completely destroyed, alongside 108 non-residential structures.
Kyoji Sato, 82, is one such victim currently residing at a community center after losing his home to the fire. He conveyed his relief about the fire's containment yet expressed the uncertainty he faces, saying, "I can't relax until I find a new place to live." His concerns echo the sentiments of many displaced residents staring down the aftermath of this devastating disaster.
Reflecting on the severity of the incident, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced on March 7 during government meetings, "The fire will be designated as a disaster of extreme severity." Consequently, increased central government subsidies are anticipated to facilitate local recovery and reconstruction efforts, aiding residents like Sato who have been displaced and seek to return to normalcy.
While the immediate threat of fire recedes, longer-term impacts remain to be addressed. Fires of this magnitude have lasting effects on both the community and the natural environment. Local officials assure the population of continued support as recovery strategies are rolled out over the coming weeks.
The weary residents of Ofunato City, who have endured the harrowing experiences of evacuation and loss, now face the challenging road to recovery, bolstered by the resources and empathy of local and national leaders who promise to assist them during this arduous phase of rebuilding. It will take time, but community resilience remains steadfast as the emergency response evolves from firefighting to recovery.