Hundreds of firefighters are battling wildfires in northern Japan as authorities ordered mass evacuations.

Axar.az informs, citing The Japan Times, that according to local government statements, fires in the mountainous Iwate region have burned around 700 hectares since breaking out three days ago.

More than 3,200 residents have been told to leave their homes, while about 1,300 firefighters, Self-Defense Forces personnel, and multiple helicopters are involved in the operation.

At least eight buildings have been destroyed, though no injuries have been reported as residents had already evacuated.

Authorities say no rain is expected in the coming week, raising concerns that the fires could continue to spread.