Fierce Downpours and Mudslides Hit Southern Japan During Obon Week

Severe downpours have hit Japan's southern island of Kyushu, causing floods and mudslides just as the nation marks its Obon holiday week. The dangerous weather conditions have left multiple people missing and injured, severely affecting travel plans during this significant period.

The torrential rains that started late last week have particularly impacted Kagoshima, where a lingering low-pressure system has led to one person being reported missing and four others injured. In response, the Japan Meteorological Agency released the highest-level warning for the Kumamoto area early Monday.

Emergency services are actively searching for missing persons, including a family caught in a mudslide. The harsh weather has resulted in suspension of train services, including bullet trains, and power outages affecting 6,000 households. Residents face additional challenges as rising water levels disrupt normalcy.

(With inputs from agencies.)