TOKYO, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Wildfires that broke out in Okayama City, western Japan, nearly three weeks ago, have been extinguished, local media reported.

The city's fire department made the announcement on Friday, after finding no active flames or hot spots since April 5, public broadcaster NHK reported.

The wildfires, which had burned about 565 hectares, including parts of neighboring Tamano City and destroyed at least six homes and warehouses, were among the largest ever recorded in Okayama Prefecture, the report said.

Fire authorities announced on March 28 that the blaze had been brought under control, while the city continued to deploy helicopters and firefighters on the ground to check for hot spots in the affected areas.

It is believed the wildfires, which began on March 23, were started by a worker who set fire to trees he had cut down, the report said. The police are investigating the cause.

The city of Okayama plans to conduct a field study to assess the damage left by the fires. Enditem

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