ISHIKAWA, Japan: Record rainfall in Japan’s Ishikawa prefecture has caused severe flooding and landslides, killing six people and leaving 10 others missing.
The deluge began on Saturday and affected cities like Wajima and Suzu, already recovering from a devastating earthquake on January 1. In just one day, these areas received twice their usual September rainfall, resulting in the overflow of dozens of rivers and the isolation of over 100 communities.
Among the dead were two individuals found near a landslide-hit tunnel, including a construction worker. Other victims included elderly residents. Japan’s meteorological agency issued its highest alert on Saturday, warning of life-threatening conditions, though the alert has since been downgraded.
Floodwaters submerged streets and temporary housing built for those displaced by the January earthquake. Around 4,000 households lost power, and more than 40,000 residents in cities like Wajima, Suzu, and Noto have been evacuated. Additional evacuations were ordered for 16,000 people in Niigata and Yamagata prefectures.
Recovery efforts are ongoing, but with more rain expected, authorities are urging continued vigilance to prevent further casualties and damage.
