Updated Jul 5, 2021 - World

Japan landslide leaves 4 dead, dozens missing

Oriana González

Picture of a rescue worker standing while looking at the scene of a mudslide — A rescue worker removes mud and debris at the scene of a landslide following days of heavy rain in Atami. Photo: Charly TRIBALLEAU / AFP) (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images

Dozens of people are missing and at least four are dead after a mudslide crashed through several buildings in the city of Atami on Saturday, just west of Tokyo, Japan, AP reports.

Details: In addition to the four confirmed dead, 25 people have been rescued, including three who are injured, per AP.

Up to 80 homes in Atami were buried entirely, according to a Fire and Disaster Management Agency official cited by AP.
The city warned its residents to protect themselves after more than a foot of rain fell in the span of two days, according to the New York Times.

By the numbers: A 2020 report from the Japanese government said that the country averaged as many as 1,500 landslides annually over the prior 10 years, almost a 50% increase from the past decade. The number of landslides reached a record high of 3,459 in 2018.

What they're saying: "Currently, the police, fire department, Japan Coast Guard, and Self-Defense Forces are doing their utmost to save lives, rescue people in need of rescue, and guide evacuation," Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said.

"Human life is our top priority, and we will do our utmost to understand the damage situation and take emergency measures in cooperation with local governments."

What to watch: Suga warned that heavy rain is still expected and urged residents to follow evacuation instructions from their local governments.

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Japan landslide leaves 4 dead, dozens missing

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