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Twin Otsuchi Blazes Become Japan's Third-Largest Wildfire, Evacuate 3,200

4/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

The twin blazes in Otsuchi rank as Japan’s third-largest wildfire on record.
By April 25 the fires had burned about 730 hectares and forced the evacuation of 1,541 households, about 3,233 people.
More than 1,000 firefighters, aided by helicopters and Self-Defense Forces water drops, battle the flames.
Mayor Kozo Hirano seeks aid and hot-bath services for displaced residents.
Eight buildings were damaged or destroyed, but no injuries or deaths were reported.

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Story summary

The twin blazes in Otsuchi rank as Japan’s third-largest wildfire on record.
By April 25 the fires had burned about 730 hectares and forced the evacuation of 1,541 households, about 3,233 people.
More than 1,000 firefighters, aided by helicopters and Self-Defense Forces water drops, battle the flames.
Mayor Kozo Hirano seeks aid and hot-bath services for displaced residents.
Eight buildings were damaged or destroyed, but no injuries or deaths were reported.