Southeast Asia Information Port News (www.dnyxxg.com) – According to a report by Japan's NHK television on the 19th, a large-scale fire broke out in Oita City, Oita Prefecture, Japan, on the evening of the 18th. The fire has spread to more than 170 buildings, including residential houses. Firefighters are still battling the blaze, which is not yet under control.
The report stated that the fire broke out at approximately 5:45 PM local time on the 18th. Initially, residents reported a fire in one house, which then spread rapidly. Oita Prefecture stated that in addition to numerous buildings being destroyed, surrounding forests were also affected. A 76-year-old resident is currently missing. As of 11:40 PM on the 18th, 175 people from 115 households had been evacuated to shelters.
NHK footage taken by drone on the morning of the 19th showed some houses collapsed and thick white smoke billowing from them, with flames still visible in some areas.
The Sankei Shimbun reported that the estimated affected area of the fire is approximately 48,900 square meters, exceeding the building area of the Tokyo Dome (46,755 square meters).
The Asahi Shimbun noted that Oita City was under a strong wind warning when the fire broke out. Firefighters stated that the fire was likely ignited by a combination of strong winds and sparks.
According to Kyodo News, on the 19th, the Oita Prefectural Government requested the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force to dispatch troops to assist in disaster relief. On the same day, the Japanese government also established an information liaison office at the Prime Minister's Office Crisis Management Center to coordinate and monitor the latest developments in the disaster situation. (End)
