Japan Fights 5-Day Wildfire Near Historic Town

Japan is currently deploying 1,400 firefighters and 100 Self-Defense Force personnel to combat significant mountain wildfires in its northern region. These fires have been burning for five consecutive days as of Sunday, April 26, 2026, and are critically threatening the historic coastal town of Otsuchi.

The affected area has expanded to 1,373 hectares (3,393 acres), showing a 7% increase by Sunday morning. The fires pose a direct risk to residential areas in Otsuchi, a town that previously suffered immense loss during the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Currently, 1,541 households, totaling 3,233 residents, are under evacuation orders, representing about a third of Otsuchi's population.

Officials note that dry conditions and strong winds are hindering firefighting efforts, despite aerial support from helicopters. Residents express deep concern, with one noting that fire's complete destruction is more feared than the aftermath of a tsunami. As of the latest reports, only one minor injury has been reported, occurring at an evacuation center. No rain is forecast for Sunday or Monday, though a brief shower is expected on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. The cause of the fires remains under investigation.