A devastating landslide struck the western Japanese prefecture of Ehime early Friday, leaving three people missing and prompting a highest-level evacuation alert in the affected area.
In Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, a massive slope approximately 50 meters wide and 100 meters high collapsed around 4 a.m., sending mud cascading into nearby residences and an apartment building, according to Kyodo News. Local police and firefighters are actively searching for the three missing individuals.
The city has responded by issuing a level-five evacuation alert in the disaster-hit Shimizu district. This highest level alert requires residents to immediately seek shelter in sturdy buildings, upper floors of houses, or other safe locations to protect their lives.
Since Wednesday, Matsuyama has experienced an unprecedented 213 millimeters of rainfall, matching the monthly average for July. The Japan Meteorological Agency highlighted that a lingering rainy-season front over the Pacific side of western to eastern Japan is creating highly unstable atmospheric conditions, increasing the risk of further landslides and flooding in low-lying areas.
With heavy rains expected to continue through Saturday, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
