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On February 26, 2025, a large-scale wildfire broke out in Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, destroying approximately 3,370 hectares, or 10 % of the area of the city. One person was killed and 226 buildings including 90 homes were damaged according to the city. At one time, 12 evacuation centers were opened in the city where up to 1,249 people were evacuated. The fire was finally extinguished on April 7, 41 days after it began. While most evacuees had returned home, nearly 60 people remained in two centers. By the end of May, all evacuation centers had closed following the construction of temporary housing. However, this transition has complicated efforts to assess individual needs. Therefore, continued, personalized support tailored to each person's unique circumstances remains crucial.

Upon learning that Ofunato City, a community still recovering from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, had once again been struck by disaster, Civic Force promptly dispatched staff to the affected areas. While this was our first emergency response to a wildfire, we worked hard to improve conditions at evacuation centers by providing material support, assisting the closing and relocation of evacuation centers during their consolidation, and providing futon-drying support.

In this issue, we will report on our assistance activities for the areas affected by the wildfire, which we have been continuing since the end of February. We will also provide the latest information on NPO Partner Projects currently being implemented in the Tohoku region, as well as in Okunoto, which is in the process of recovery and reconstruction from the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake and Heavy Rain.

translated by YWCA ILV