Heavy rains on Kyushu, the southern island of Japan, have caused deadly landslides and widespread disruption. Authorities report at least one death and twelve people still unaccounted for as rescue and recovery efforts continue across affected communities. The incidents emerged after powerful downpours battered the region, inundating homes and triggering dangerous slopes to collapse, stranding residents and complicating search operations.
In Fukuoka Prefecture, a 77-year-old woman died at her residence when a landslide swept through the house during the overnight deluge. Her husband, aged 74, was rescued with minor injuries, underscoring the sudden and deadly nature of the event. Local responders emphasize the unpredictable ground conditions following heavy rainfall, which continue to threaten additional structures as the weather persists.
Kyodo News Agency and regional authorities indicate that nine homes were buried or damaged by subsequent slides, leaving occupants isolated and unable to contact those still missing. The rapid sequence of slides has hampered communications and impeded initial assessment, raising concern for others in similarly vulnerable hillside neighborhoods. Emergency crews remain on high alert, coordinating with police, fire services, and disaster responders to locate anyone trapped and to secure escape routes for residents in danger.
As a precautionary measure, authorities announced large-scale evacuations planned for this weekend. Approximately 370,000 people in affected areas are advised to leave their homes to avoid further harm from rising waters, mud flows, and the potential for additional landslides. Evacuation centers have been established, with relief teams mobilized to provide shelter, food, and medical care while assessments of structural safety continue. Local leaders stress the importance of listening to official guidance and moving to designated safe zones promptly to minimize risk.
The heavy rainfall has also caused rivers to swell and some roads to be cut off, complicating travel and delaying response times. Flooding has strain on infrastructure, forcing authorities to reroute traffic and implement temporary closures to protect motorists from fast-rising currents and unstable banks. Meteorologists warn that more rain is possible in the coming days, heightening the need for vigilance, preplanned evacuation, and continuous updates from weather agencies. Residents are urged to stay away from flood-prone areas, avoid streams and slopes, and check on neighbors who may require assistance during the storm period. Official guidance continues to stress personal safety, readiness to relocate if asked, and the importance of keeping essential supplies on hand as conditions evolve, with communication channels maintained for urgent calls or updates from responders.