Heavy rain and flooding on the Japanese island of Kyushu has killed over a dozen people, local authorities confirm. Kumamoto and Oita prefectures were the worst hit areas. Record amounts of rainfall was recorded in Kumamoto Thursday and more heavy rain was predicted for Friday.
Authorities say 19 people have been confirmed dead while at least 8 people remain missing. Hundreds of homes have been damaged or destroyed by flooding and mudslides. Tens of thousands of people were forced to leave their homes for safer ground. Most evacuations had been stopped by Friday.
Rescue teams are already working in affected areas. Government officials promised a quick and efficient response to the situation. "The government will take all possible measures to ensure related ministries and agencies collaborate in gathering information, preventing the further spread of damage and carrying out rescue work,” said Chief Cabinet Secretary Osamu Fujimura.
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