170 Homes Burn as Major Fire Hits Oita, Japan

A powerful fire that broke out in a residential area of the city of Oita in southwestern Japan has destroyed or damaged at least 170 houses, and more than 170 people have been forced to evacuate. According to the Japan Fire and Disaster Management Agency, one 70-year-old man is considered missing.

The fire broke out on Tuesday evening amid strong winds near a fishing port in the city of Oita on the island of Kyushu. The fire spread rapidly, also engulfing an adjacent forest area. On Wednesday morning, firefighters and army helicopters were still fighting the remaining flames.

Footage broadcast by local television companies shows columns of smoke rising from the ruins of burned houses, although the open flame was no longer visible. One eyewitness told the Kyodo News agency that he was forced to flee in a hurry, leaving most of his belongings behind, as the fire spread very quickly.

More than 200 firefighters and dozens of fire trucks participated in the firefighting efforts. Almost 20 hours later, the fire was still not completely under control. Given the seriousness of the situation, the Ground Self-Defense Forces involved two UH-1 type military helicopters in the operation.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi expressed condolences to the victims on her X page and promised to "provide maximum support" to them.