Death toll in Japan flood disaster rises to 156

By Nilay Kar Onum

ISTANBUL (AA) – The death toll from torrential rains and floods in western Japan has risen to 156, the Kyodo News Agency reported on Tuesday.

According to the agency, a total of 156 people have died in 12 prefectures and around 60 others remain missing in seven prefectures.

Search and rescue operations have intensified in the Okayama and Hiroshima prefectures, where more than 100 people died.

Other casualties were reported in the Ehime, Okayama, Yamaguchi, Kyoto, Gifu, Shiga, Hyogo, Kochi and Fukuoka prefectures.

Authorities believe the death toll will rise further as many people are believed to be stranded in their homes due to a lack of access to roads.

Meanwhile, around 255,000 homes are still without water in 12 prefectures as of Tuesday noon, the agency said, citing the Health Ministry.