Torrential rains blamed for deaths of dozens in southwest Japan

World Today

JAPAN-WEATHER-RAINPolicemen check a damaged car following heavy rains and flooding in Hiroshima on July 8, 2018. (AFP PHOTO / JIJI PRESS / STR / Japan OUT)

Record rainfall in Japan has led to the deaths of dozens with many more missing.

The heavy rainfall is blamed for at least 88 deaths and hindering rescue efforts by tens of thousands of emergency workers and military personnel.

CGTN’s Toby Muse explains, authorities warn landslides can strike even after the rain subsides.

High waters have swept cars away and uprooted trees. The downpours have unleashed floods and landslides. Many homes have been destroyed. Authorities warn the risk will continue even after the rains let up.

Some 50,000 people, including soldiers and police, have been deployed to find and rescue survivors. In the city of Kurashiki, in western Japan, the military helped evacuate patients and medical staff from a hospital roof. Eight districts, including Kyoto and Hiroshima, have been impacted.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said during a three hour period, Kochi received 26.3 centimeters, more than 10 inches, of rain, the highest since records began four decades ago.

Millions have been urged to leave their homes to avoid the flooding. Those who can’t escape have been told to seek refuge on their roofs.