Search continues for the missing in Kyushu

NHK -- Jul 13

Rescuers have been expanding search areas for missing residents one week after record rains wreaked havoc across the northern Kyushu region in western Japan.

At least 29 people were killed in Fukuoka and Oita prefectures because of mudslides and floods. In Fukuoka, about 20 people still remain unaccounted for.

Rescue teams from the police and the Self-Defense Forces are looking for the missing, expanding their search to areas along rivers and other places near their homes.

Some 300 members have been sent to one of the districts in worst-hit Asakura City for search and rescue. Piled-up wood and waist-deep mud hamper the search.

A rescuer said he will do all he can so that the missing people can return to their relatives.

A farmer in the area said he feels very worried as his acquaintance is unaccounted for. He said he hopes all the missing people would be found as soon as possible.

Jul 13 (ANNnewsCH) - 九州北部を襲った記録的な大雨で12日、新たに4人の死亡が確認されました。福岡、大分両県で死者は29人に上っています。被災地では13日、猛暑日となる予想で、屋外での復旧作業などに十分な注意が必要です。