Torrential rain has battered Japan’s Chiba region near Tokyo, killing at least four people and triggering landslides, flooding and widespread power outages.
Heavy rain hits Chiba
Chiba has experienced exceptionally heavy rainfall, with five people injured and one person reported missing.
The severe weather has caused flooding and landslides across parts of the region, while emergency teams continue responding to the damage.
Evacuation warnings issued
More than 100,000 households have been urged to evacuate as authorities warn of dangerous conditions.
Japan’s weather agency issued its highest level 5 warning for Chiba for the first time before lowering the alert to level 4 on Thursday morning.
Unprecedented rainfall
A Japan Meteorological Agency official described the rainfall as reaching an “unprecedented level”.
Authorities are warning residents to remain alert as further flooding and landslides remain possible.
Floodwaters disrupt communities
Footage from Japan’s public broadcaster NHK showed cars submerged in floodwaters as the heavy rain overwhelmed roads and affected communities.
Power outages have also been reported in areas hit by the extreme weather.
Emergency response
Rescue and emergency teams are working to assist affected residents and assess the damage.
Officials continue to urge people in vulnerable areas to follow evacuation instructions and avoid dangerous locations as the situation develops.
