Massive Fire in Japan Engulfs 170 Buildings, Rescue Ops Underway

A massive fire tore through more than 170 buildings in the Saganoseki district of Oita city in southern Japan, turning a quiet coastal community into a zone of destruction and uncertainty. The blaze, which began around 5:40 pm on Tuesday, continued burning through the night and remained only partially controlled by early Wednesday morning, according to Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency.

Local authorities quickly moved residents to safety as the flames spread rapidly through the densely built hillside neighbourhood overlooking the historic fishing harbour. Nearly 175 residents were evacuated to emergency shelters, leaving behind homes and belongings as the fire swallowed the town street by street.

One Person Missing Amid Widespread Damage

Despite hours of firefighting, officials confirmed that one person remains missing, raising fears of possible casualties as search teams continue navigating smoldering structures and unstable debris. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Aerial footage broadcast by Japanese media showed entire rows of homes reduced to ash, metal frames twisted by heat, and rolling clouds of thick grey smoke drifting across the seaside landscape. The fire also spread to nearby forested areas, complicating containment efforts.

Firefighting Reinforcements Called in as Blaze Spreads

As conditions worsened, Oita’s governor requested additional support. In response, a military firefighting helicopter was deployed to help tackle the expanding fire, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed in a statement on X.

Ground crews worked through the night, battling flames pushed by coastal winds. Many firefighters coming off long shifts described the situation as one of the most challenging in recent years due to the tight layout of wooden homes and the hilly terrain, both of which helped accelerate the fire’s spread.

A Community Known for Its Famous Mackerel Now Faces Ruins

The Saganoseki area is widely known for its iconic Seki-brand mackerel, a premium delicacy that draws fishermen and visitors from across Japan. Now, its scenic waterfront and hillside homes stand in stark contrast to the charred devastation left behind.

For many residents, the emotional toll is immense. Some watched from shelters as live footage showed flames consuming homes passed down for generations. Others scrambled to salvage belongings before being urged to evacuate.

Authorities Investigate Cause Amid Urgent Recovery Efforts

Officials are expected to conduct a detailed investigation once the fire is fully extinguished. Recovery teams will then begin assessing structural damage, environmental risks, and long-term impacts on the community’s fishing economy.

For now, the priority remains controlling the remaining hotspots and locating the missing individual.

With winter approaching and homes destroyed, community support services are being mobilized to provide temporary housing, medical care, and psychological assistance.