Heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc in Japan’s Ishikawa prefecture, causing floods and landslides that have left six people dead and 10 others missing.
The area, still recovering from a severe earthquake earlier this year, experienced record-breaking downpours over the weekend.
The Japan Meteorological Agency reported that rainfall in Wajima and Suzu reached double the average levels for September.
Over 540 millimeters (21 inches) of rain fell in Wajima in just 72 hours, the highest continuous rainfall recorded since data collection began.
Military personnel join rescue efforts as thousands evacuate due to landslides and record rainfall.The intense rain was caused by an extratropical depression, leading to rivers overflowing and landslides that damaged infrastructure and cut off more than 100 communities.
Two individuals died near a landslide-affected tunnel in Wajima that had been under repair due to earthquake damage from January. Rescue operations are ongoing, with eight people still unaccounted for in the area.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has directed officials to monitor the situation closely and assist local authorities. Military personnel have been dispatched to support rescue efforts as thousands of residents have been urged to evacuate.
Power outages have affected over 4,000 households, while floodwaters have inundated emergency housing built for those displaced by the earthquake. Some residents described the rapid rise of floodwaters, which submerged streets and left vehicles stranded within minutes.
The Japan Meteorological Agency has downgraded its “special warnings” but continues to advise caution. Scientists warn that climate change is likely to intensify an extreme weather event, as warmer air can hold more moisture, leading to heavier rainfall.