05 Jul 2018 | 06:05 PM UTC
Japan: 160,000 evacuated in southern Japan due to heavy rains July 5-6 /update 4
At least 160,000 ordered to evacuate in southern Japan on July 5-6 due to heavy rain; further rains forecast through July 8
Event
Heavy rains hit southern and western Japan on Thursday, July 5. As of Friday, July 6, heavy rain and flood warnings are in effect for large parts of the Chubu, Kinki, Chugoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu regions. Up to 457 mm (18 in) of rain were recorded in parts Shikoku, while up to 400 mm (16 in) of rain were recorded in Tokai. One person was reportedly swept away and killed in Inagawa (Hyogo prefecture). Officials ordered the evacuation of at least 160,000 people throughout the Kinki region, including 110,000 people in Kyoto prefecture. Further rain is forecast in the abovementioned areas through Sunday, July 8; landslides and localized floods are possible, especially along rivers.
Advice
People present in or traveling to Japan are advised to monitor weather conditions until July 8, be prepared for transportation disruptions, and obey any instructions issued by the local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock an adult over.
