The coastal region of Ishikawa in Japan, already grappling with the aftermath of a powerful New Year’s Day earthquake, has been struck by record-breaking rainfall, leading to deadly floods and landslides. Japan’s weather agency described the torrential downpour as the heaviest ever recorded in the region, triggering widespread destruction.
At least six people have been confirmed dead, several others are missing, and tens of thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate as rivers overflowed and homes were engulfed by landslides.
Catastrophic Flooding After a Deadly Quake
Ishikawa prefecture, which is still recovering from a 7.5 magnitude earthquake on January 1 that killed hundreds and left many homeless, now faces further destruction. Temporary housing built for earthquake survivors was submerged in several feet of floodwater over the weekend. The earthquake had destabilized the region’s soil, making it more vulnerable to landslides during heavy rainfall.
According to NHK, Japan’s public broadcaster, 16 rivers in the region breached their banks in the city of Suzu, and a landslide buried a home, killing one resident. Two more bodies were discovered near a tunnel in Wajima, while another landslide claimed two women in their home. A man pulled from a river was also confirmed dead.
Rescue Efforts Continue
Authorities are still searching for several people who went missing during the disaster. Four workers involved in earthquake restoration efforts in Wajima are unaccounted for and feared to have been swept away by a landslide. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is coordinating the rescue and recovery efforts.
The record rains also cut power to more than 6,200 households, adding to the misery of those affected.
Japan’s Weather Agency Warns of Further Risks
Japan’s weather agency issued its highest emergency warning on Saturday, urging residents to take immediate precautions. Though the warning level was downgraded on Sunday, authorities continue to ask residents to remain on high alert. The risk of further landslides remains high due to the unstable soil conditions caused by the January earthquake, especially in the wake of the ongoing heavy rains.
As Ishikawa prefecture battles the devastating floods and landslides, the community’s resilience is being tested again. With rescue operations underway and residents bracing for further risks, Japan faces the challenge of rebuilding yet again in the face of nature’s unrelenting forces.
