Record Rainfall Batters Japan, Killing At Least Six And Leaving Thousands Without Power
Record Rainfall Batters Japan, Killing at Least Six and Leaving Thousands Without Power Japan is facing an extraordinary spell of rainfall that has caused deadly flooding, disrupted transport and left tens of thousands of households without electricity. At least six people have died, according to reports, while more than 20,000 households lost power in the worst-hit areas of Chiba Prefecture, east of Tokyo. Chiba recorded more than 360mm of rain within 24 hours, with the total exceeding the previous local record. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued its highest-level emergency warning for heavy rain and landslides in parts of the prefecture. Chiba Governor Toshihito Kumagai described the situation as “extremely unusual”, saying he had responded to numerous disasters but had never experienced anything similar. The torrential rain caused widespread flooding, with roads and railway lines submerged and landslide risks remaining high. The extreme weather also caused major disruption around Narita International Airport, where about 7,000 travellers were stranded overnight after transport links were disrupted. Airport staff provided passengers with sleeping bags, water and food, while some travellers were forced to sleep inside the terminal. Train services were partially restored on Friday, although delays continued. The flooding also stranded thousands of commuters at railway stations, while emergency shelters were opened for people unable to return home. Japan’s authorities have deployed emergency personnel, including members of the Ground Self-Defence Force, to assist with rescue and relief operations.
More than 20,000 homes were without electricity after floodwater damaged power infrastructure. Authorities have also issued evacuation advice to hundreds of thousands of residents in affected areas. Although the most severe rain warnings have been downgraded in some areas, officials continue to warn of flooding and landslides as further rain is possible.
