Record rainfall in Chiba prefecture, near Tokyo, has caused widespread flooding, paralyzing traffic and leaving thousands of travelers stranded at Narita International Airport. At least four people have died and one is missing.
Some areas in Chiba received more than 360 millimeters of rain in 24 hours, flooding roads, homes and railway lines. The downpour hit Japan during one of the country's busiest travel periods.
The situation has caused major transport chaos. About 7,000 people were stranded at Narita Airport, as rail and road links were cut off. Many passengers spent the night in the terminals, where airport staff distributed blankets, water and food, Reuters reports.
Although some rail lines remained suspended, some services between Narita and Tokyo resumed on Friday, easing some of the traffic. Flights at the airport were expected to operate as scheduled, although Japan Airlines warned of possible delays.
The floods have also caused power outages. More than 22,000 families were left without power on Friday morning, while hundreds of people took shelter in temporary evacuation centers set up in public buildings.
Authorities have also deployed the armed forces to help with rescue operations and dealing with the aftermath of the disaster. More than 200,000 residents in the affected areas have been advised to seek shelter in safe places.
Chiba Governor Toshihito Kumagai described the situation as "completely unusual," saying that despite his experience in dealing with many disasters, he had never experienced such a situation before.
Authorities warn that the danger is not completely over, as more rainfall is expected throughout the day and waterlogged soils could increase the risk of flooding and landslides. /Telegraph/
