Yesterday, a huge rainfall in Hiroshima, Japan caused a landslide and destroyed an entire village. A least 39 people are reported to have died and an additional 7 are reported missing. The Japanese government is moving to send personnel to rescue the rest of the residents who are trapped under the immense amount of dirt and search for additional survivors.
Hiroshima experienced the most severe rainfall in the area in a long time from the 19th to the 20th of August. The resulting landslide happened at dawn on the 21st while most of the residents were still asleep. Many houses which were built from wood were almost literally ripped apart and cars were crumpled.
In an interview with News Y, a resident of the village explained, "I saw a huge amount of earth come crashing into the house, and the only thing I could think of doing was to wake up my family and get out." Another villager added, "When I woke up the whole village was buried under all the dirt and cars were being swept away."
The landslide caused the deaths of 39 villagers. Japanese press reported that an additional 7 residents are missing, possibly trapped under the immense amount of earth. It is believed that one member of the Hiroshima fire department was killed while working to rescue the villagers.
Shinzo Abe, the Prime Minster of Japan returned to his office and asked the Fire Department and other rescue personnel to organize plans to help the villagers. He stated that he has already ordered hundreds of Self Defense Forces to the Hiroshima area.
Meanwhile, the prime minister was on vacation with former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshiro at Yamanashi Hyun. Members and leaders of more progressive political parties criticized Abe for leaving his office during such a crisis.
