Baghdad: One person is missing and 175 others were evacuated in a residential area in Japan after a massive fire destroyed at least 170 buildings, local authorities announced Wednesday. The fire erupted in the town of Oita on the southern island of Kyushu and quickly spread to a nearby forest, necessitating urgent evacuation efforts.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Japanese public broadcaster NHK reported that firefighters were still battling the blaze. Videos filmed Tuesday evening depicted firefighters combating enormous flames that had engulfed homes, while residents were being relocated to a temporary evacuation center for safety.

One resident recounted to NHK, "The flames rose high, turning the sky red. The wind was blowing fiercely. I never imagined a fire could spread this far." The fire initiated on Tuesday night and prompted the evacuation of 115 homes, affecting 175 people, as stated by local authorities.

The extensive fire has caused significant damage, with at least 170 buildings impacted by the blaze. The situation is being closely monitored as firefighting efforts continue in a bid to bring the fire under control and prevent further destruction.