A fast-moving wildfire in Oita on Kyushu island has damaged or destroyed at least 170 homes and prompted evacuations of more than 170 residents. A man in his 70s is unaccounted for as crews continue search and firefighting operations nearly 20 hours after the blaze began. More than 200 firefighters, dozens of engines and two UH-1 helicopters have been deployed. Officials have opened emergency shelters and the prime minister pledged government support for those affected.
Wildfire Tears Through Oita Neighborhood — 170 Homes Damaged, Evacuations and Helicopters Deployed
A fast-moving wildfire in Oita on Kyushu island has damaged or destroyed at least 170 homes and prompted evacuations of more than 170 residents. A man in his 70s is unaccounted for as crews continue search and firefighting operations nearly 20 hours after the blaze began. More than 200 firefighters, dozens of engines and two UH-1 helicopters have been deployed. Officials have opened emergency shelters and the prime minister pledged government support for those affected.
07:38 AM, 11/19/2025Environment
Oita, Kyushu — A fast-moving wildfire that began Tuesday evening near a fishing port in Oita has damaged or destroyed at least 170 homes and forced more than 170 residents to evacuate, authorities said. The blaze spread quickly into nearby forested areas amid strong winds and remained only partially under control nearly 20 hours after it started.
Emergency teams are searching for a man in his 70s who is currently unaccounted for. Dozens of fire engines and more than 200 firefighters were mobilized to battle the flames, while the Ground Self-Defense Force dispatched two UH-1 helicopters to assist in aerial firefighting operations.
Television footage midday showed smoke rising over broad swaths of scorched land where houses once stood, although visible orange flames had largely subsided. Local residents described a chaotic evacuation as the fire moved rapidly through the neighborhood.
A resident said she fled quickly and left many possessions behind because the fire "spread in the blink of an eye."
Authorities continue efforts to extinguish hotspots and confirm the full extent of damage. Roads in the affected area have been restricted and emergency shelters have been opened for displaced families. Officials urged residents in nearby neighborhoods to remain alert for evacuation orders and to follow official guidance.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi posted on X expressing sympathy for those affected and pledged the government would "provide maximum support" for recovery and relief efforts as damage assessments continue.