Heavy Rain Causes Flooding in Japan (VIDEO)

On July 26, 2024, the Japan Meteorological Agency issued the highest alert level due to record rainfall that hit the Yamagata and Akita prefectures, Liter.kz reports with reference to NTT Docomo.

Heavy rainfall caused flooding and landslides, forcing more than 200,000 people to be evacuated from flooded areas.

“In Yamagata Prefecture, about 75,000 residents are to be evacuated. At the same time, in Miyagi and Akita Prefectures, located in nearby areas, about 138,000 people are affected by the evacuation. Rescue services and local authorities are urging residents to leave their homes and follow instructions to avoid danger,” the newspaper writes.

Although the intensity of the rains has eased somewhat, meteorologists continue to warn of a high risk of further flooding and landslides. Roads and bridges in flooded areas are under water, making it difficult to access the affected areas and complicating the work of rescuers.

Active rescue operations are currently ongoing. They involve police, military personnel and volunteers who are providing assistance to victims and evacuating residents.

Several casualties have been reported. In the city of Shinjo, a patrol car was swept away by floodwaters, leaving the two police officers in the car missing. Searches are ongoing, but so far without results.

“Floods and landslides have caused significant damage to infrastructure and homes. In Shinjo, a nursing home was flooded, forcing 37 people to seek shelter on the second floor. In Funagata, rescuers pulled an 80-year-old woman from the rubble of her collapsed home. In Akita, the search continues for an 86-year-old man who was presumably swept away by the Omono River,” the source said.

Heavy rains have also disrupted transportation. In Yamagata Prefecture, train service has been suspended in several areas and many roads are blocked due to landslides and flooding. These problems are making it difficult for rescue services and access to affected areas.