Gallery: A fire that has not been seen in Japan for 30 years is destroyed
The fire, which has already consumed more than 1,800 hectares, is the largest disaster in the country in the last 30 years. So far, a man has lost his life and dozens of houses have been damaged. Authorities have ordered the evacuation of thousands of residents, many of whom are looking for security in temporary shelters The New York Times.
Firefighters and disaster management professionals work with all their strength to curb the flames. Nearly 1,700 firefighters fight against the destruction, coming from 14 different prefectures. Firefighters and military helicopters have also been deployed to try to curb the flames from the air. The situation is further exacerbated by the fact that Ofunato is in the driest period of the year, which only increases the risk of the fire.
The cause of the fire is still being investigated, but authorities say dry weather and wind could have contributed to rapid spread. Local residents and authorities alike are worried that they will not be able to curb the flames in time and expect even greater destruction. A Japanese fire brigade spokesman said the last forest fire of similar sizes occurred in 1992 on the island of Hokkaido, when more than 1,000 hectares burned.
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