14 dead or missing as more floods and landslides hit eastern Japan weeks after Typhoon “Hagibis”

Just two weeks after the devastation of Typhoon "Hagibis", torrential rains have triggered more flooding and landslides in the eastern part of Japan. At least 10 people were killed and 4 others remained missing, as of October 26, 2019.

Japanese broadcasting organization NHK reported that the victims who died in flooding and mudslides were in the prefectures of Fukushima and Chiba.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), around 86 mm (3 inches) of rain fell in just one hour at Kamogawa in Chiba Prefecture on October 25.

In a 12 hour period on the same day, Ushiku in Chiba Prefecture recorded 283 mm (11 inches) of rain, while Namie in Fukushima Prefecture received around 245 mm (10 inches).

The fatalities occurred in Chiba City, Mobara, Ichihara, Nagara, and Chonan said the Fire and Disaster Management Agency (FDMA).

One resident died while one is missing following floodwaters that swept away a vehicle in Soma, Fukushima Prefecture, according to media reports.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force said they were conducting search operations for victims believed to be missing after mudslides and floods hit Marumori, Miyagi Prefecture.

Around 90 structures have been damaged in the prefectures of Chiba, Fukushima, and Ibaraki.

Moreover, three establishments were completely ravaged in Chiba City.

In a statement on October 25, 2019, Prime Minister Abe said, "The effects of a low-pressure system and Typhoon No. 21 have caused torrential rain, centered on the Kanto region, and damage has already resulted from rivers overflowing and landslides occurring. In addition, heavy rains are forecast for the Tohoku region into tomorrow morning. Two weeks will have passed since the torrential rain disaster caused by Typhoon No. 19. It has continued to rain intermittently since then, so it is important to stay alert to the situation."

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