Local authorities report the disappearance of a man in his 70s, while 175 people from 115 households have been sheltered in a community hall due to the blaze.
The fire started in a residential area of Oita City, near the fishing port of Saganoseki.
The rapid spread of the flames ravaged a residential area and burned the surrounding forests. More than 12 hours after the emergency call, firefighters are still working to control the fire.
Meanwhile, Oita Prefecture announced its decision to invoke the disaster relief law in the city, which will allow the central government and the prefecture itself to cover the necessary expenses, including the maintenance of the shelter.
jdt/jav/ode/msm
