Cars Navigate Submerged Streets in Omuta Amid Deadly Flooding

The death toll from severe flooding in Japan stood at 53 on July 7, a figure that was expected to rise with many residents still missing in areas hit by intense rain and landslides.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on July 6 that the heavy rain was likely to continue until July 8. He added: “I urge the public … to pay close attention to information from local authorities and take actions to protect your own lives without letting their guard down.”

NHK said that some parts of Japan were experiencing levels of rainfall not seen in several decades.

This video shows July 7 flooding in the streets of Omuta, located in Fukuoka Prefecture. According to local reports, 200 people in the area were stranded at two evacuation centers. Other footage showed Self-Defense Forces deployed in Omuta on July 7.

Authorities said at least one woman in Fukuoka Prefecture was confirmed dead from the flooding, while in Kumamoto Prefecture, at least 52 people have died and 11 people were missing, according to The Japan Times. Credit: @rummy61215086 via Storyful