Officials from Ofunato city in Iwate Prefecture announced at 5 p.m. on Sunday that the major forest fire in their region is finally under control. The blaze initially started on February 26 and quickly spread, leading to significant destruction. According to city and prefectural authorities, as well as other sources, the fire caused considerable damage, destroying more than 200 residences and structures and claiming the life of one elderly man, aged 90.
Overall, approximately 2,900 hectares were burned by the fire. Fortunately, firefighters managed to prevent further spread of flames after Wednesday, stabilizing the affected area thereafter.
Initially, the city government issued evacuation orders for around 4,596 residents belonging to 1,896 households. Starting Friday and continuing into Sunday, authorities gradually began lifting these evacuation orders. However, evacuation measures remain active for specific locations, including the entire Ryori district in Sanriku town and three areas within Akasaki town. Due to the persisting risks, 2,424 residents in 979 households remain under evacuation orders for the time being.
5 Comments
Muchacho
Such severe crises can't always be anticipated; sincere appreciation goes out to all officials handling this tough situation.
Habibi
The city needs a better evacuation strategy, thousands still can't return home. This was preventable!
Martin L King
Tragic loss indeed, but grateful to authorities for handling a challenging situation and preventing greater damage!
Rolihlahla
City authorities should take responsibility for allowing this disaster to escalate to such a large scale.
Bella Ciao
People's livelihoods destroyed and lives lost; the slow response is just unforgivable.