TOKYO, (TDI): Japanese authorities have ordered tens of thousands to evacuate the quake-hit region of Ishikawa on Saturday due to “unprecedented” rainfall that has triggered severe floods and landslides.
As of now, numerous rivers in the area had overflowed their banks, according to Land Ministry official Masaru Kojima. The cities of Wajima and Suzu, along with Noto town, have instructed around 44,700 residents to evacuate, local officials reported.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued its highest-level warning for Ishikawa, indicating a “life-threatening situation.” JMA forecaster Satoshi Sugimoto stated that the region is experiencing “heavy rain of unprecedented levels,” urging residents to secure their safety immediately.
At least one person is missing in Wajima, with many buildings inundated and landslides blocking several roadways, according to a statement from the Ishikawa government.
Public broadcaster NHK aired footage showing streets in Wajima completely submerged.
Three rivers in Ishikawa have overflowed into surrounding communities, a local official informed foreign news agencies.
Additionally, a house was reported to have been impacted by a landslide, according to the Fire and Disaster Management Agency.
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Another 16,000 residents in the neighboring Niigata and Yamagata prefectures have also been ordered to evacuate.
Wajima and Suzu, located on Japan’s Noto peninsula, were severely affected by a devastating earthquake on New Year’s Day that resulted in at least 236 fatalities.
The region is still recovering from the 7.6-magnitude quake, which destroyed buildings, damaged roads, and ignited significant fires.
Japan has experienced unprecedented rainfall in recent years, leading to floods and landslides that have sometimes resulted in casualties.
Scientists attribute the increasing risk of heavy rainfall to human-driven climate change, which allows a warmer atmosphere to hold more water.
