At least six people have been confirmed dead on Japan’s Noto Peninsula after record rain inundated the area, which was still recovering from a major earthquake that occurred nine months ago. The heavy rain, with over 540 millimetres recorded in Wajima over 72 hours, caused flooding and landslides in the region, cutting off more than 100 areas and leaving at least eight people missing.
The floods struck emergency housing built for those who lost their homes in the earthquake, which killed at least 374 people. Some of the missing were workers on quake-related construction projects. More than 4,000 households were without power on Monday as a result of the rain, and military personnel have been deployed to assist with rescue efforts after thousands of residents were urged to evacuate.
One resident described the situation as “like something from a movie,” as the combination of the earthquake and floods have devastated the area. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi expressed concern for those affected by the heavy rain, especially in light of the previous earthquake damage.
The heavy rain also affected nearby northern prefectures, causing flooding and train service suspensions. The region continues to face challenges in rebuilding and recovery as it grapples with the aftermath of natural disasters.
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