Oita City in Flames: Fire Whirl Sparks New Fires, Increases Damage

Published on November 25, 2025

A ‘fire tornado’ has become a primary characteristic of a devastating blaze in the Saganoseki part of Oita city. The fire, which started on the evening of November 18, has done considerable damage, destroying about 170 structures in a 4.89-hectare patch. During all of the intense destruction, a fire whirl was seen, which further added to the destruction and danger, as increments of fire were added to the swirling mass of smoke and flames.

Tokyo University of Science fire phenomenon expert Kazunori Kuwana analyzed a video taken by a local resident of the fire whirl. Kuwana stated that the motion of the fire was swirling and that the motion certainly was a fire whirl, which is characterized by a vortex of smoke and fire that spirals. It was also estimated that this fire whirl reached several tens of meters in height, which increased the danger to the residents and the emergency response personnel.

Understanding the Fire Whirl: What Is It and How Does It Form?

A fire whirl occurs when intense heat and turbulent winds create a vertical column of fire and smoke that spins rapidly, forming a whirlpool-like structure in the air. Kuwana explained that fire whirls are most likely to form during large-scale fires, especially when specific conditions related to wind turbulence, local terrain, and the layout of nearby structures come into play. The Saganoseki district, surrounded by mountains, may have contributed to the formation of such a whirl by fostering the swirling winds necessary for the phenomenon.

In this particular case, the fire whirl seemed to spread horizontally as well as vertically, propelling embers across the area. This created new hotspots and additional fires, adding to the complexity of containing the already raging blaze. Kuwana emphasized that while fire whirls can occur in small fires, their formation during large blazes like the one in Oita is particularly dangerous, as they increase the unpredictability of the fire’s movement.

Firefighters Continue Battle Amid Growing Challenges

As of now, firefighters are still working tirelessly to control the flames that broke out on November 18. The fire in Saganoseki has caused significant damage to the local infrastructure, burning 170 buildings, including homes, and affecting a wide range of properties. The total area affected by the fire is about 4.89 hectares, with the intense conditions making it difficult for emergency services to gain control. Despite the significant progress, the fire’s unpredictable nature, compounded by the fire whirl and other environmental factors, continues to challenge the firefighters on the ground.

In addition to the destruction of buildings, the fire claimed the life of a 76-year-old fisherman, whose body was discovered in the remains of his house. This loss, along with the widespread damage to property, has left the local community grappling with the aftermath of the disaster.

Fire Whirl and Its Potential to Increase Damage

The phenomenon of fire whirls is not a new occurrence, but their appearance in large-scale fires like the one in Oita is a reminder of how complex and unpredictable fire behavior can be. Kuwana explained that while it cannot be definitively said whether the fire whirl played a direct role in the increased damage in the Saganoseki district, it highlights the unpredictable nature of fire dynamics in mountainous regions. The formation of such a whirl can significantly increase the speed at which embers are scattered, leading to new fires in previously unaffected areas.

Fire whirls are often seen as one of the most visually dramatic and dangerous aspects of large-scale fires. They add an additional layer of danger, making it harder for firefighting teams to predict the fire’s movements and prevent further destruction. In Oita, the fire whirl represents the broader challenges faced by emergency responders as they fight against a fire that is evolving unpredictably.

Firefighting Efforts: The Role of Local and National Agencies

The firefighting operations in Oita city have involved both local fire brigades and national agencies, working in unison to combat the flames. The complexity of the terrain and the intensity of the fire, exacerbated by the fire whirl, have made it difficult to control the situation. The Japanese government has stepped in to assist with resources, including aerial firefighting units and additional ground crews.

Local authorities in Oita are also focused on providing support to the affected residents, offering emergency housing and assistance as they begin the recovery process. The fire has not only caused physical damage to the district but has also left families displaced and searching for shelter. Efforts to clear debris and assess the full extent of the damage are ongoing.

A Reminder of the Dangers of Large-Scale Fires in Mountainous Regions

The Oita city fire serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by large-scale blazes, particularly in regions with complex terrain. Kuwana noted that the occurrence of fire whirls in such areas underscores the need for better understanding and preparation for fire behavior in mountainous or hilly regions. The unpredictable nature of fire whirls adds an additional layer of complexity to firefighting efforts, and experts like Kuwana suggest that more research is needed to fully comprehend their formation and impact on fire dynamics.

The disaster also calls attention to the broader risks of climate change, which has been linked to increased fire frequency and intensity in various parts of the world. As global temperatures rise, experts predict that wildfires and similar events will become more frequent and severe, making it essential for governments and communities to develop more robust fire prevention and response strategies.

Moving Forward: Rebuilding and Prevention Strategies for the Future

As the firefighting efforts continue in Oita city, the focus will soon shift to rebuilding the affected communities and ensuring that such a devastating event does not happen again. Local authorities are working to assess the damage and provide support to those who have lost their homes. Simultaneously, experts are calling for enhanced fire management strategies in mountainous areas to reduce the risks posed by wildfires and fire whirls in the future.

In the aftermath of this tragedy, Kuwana and other fire experts stress the importance of preparedness. Public awareness campaigns about fire safety, better land management practices, and more resources for firefighting teams are seen as crucial components of reducing the impact of future fires.

Travel Advisory

While the fire primarily affected local residents, there are currently no reports of tourists being directly impacted. However, travelers are advised to avoid the affected area and monitor local authorities’ advisories for updates on evacuations, air quality, and potential transportation disruptions. Those planning to visit nearby regions should stay informed, follow safety precautions, and ensure flexibility in their travel plans to navigate the ongoing emergency response.