Heavy rain has slammed into Japan's northcentral region of Noto this weekend, causing landslides, overflowing rivers, and flooding homes. 
Residents are facing a double whammy as they continue to recover from a deadly earthquake earlier this year.
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued its highest-level heavy rain warnings across several cities in Ishikawa prefecture, including hard-hit Wajima, where one person has been reported missing. 
By late Saturday morning, at least 12 rivers in Ishikawa had breached their banks, according to the Land and Infrastructure Ministry. Authorities are urging everyone to stay alert for mudslides and potential building damage. 
The JMA predicts up to 20 centimeters (7.8 inches) more rainfall in the region over the next 24 hours through Sunday noon. That's a whole lot of rain! 
\"Heavy rain is hitting the region that had been badly damaged by the Noto earthquake, and I believe many people are feeling very uneasy,\" said Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi.
Hayashi emphasized that the government \"puts people's lives first\" and is prioritizing search and rescue operations. He urged residents to keep up with the latest weather updates and evacuation advisories, and to take early precautions. The Self Defense Force troops have been dispatched to Ishikawa to aid in rescue efforts. 
So far, there have been no reports of injuries from the heavy rain. However, many homes are flooded, and some residents in two districts in Wajima are stranded due to landslides. Muddy waters have blocked several roads, and about 6,500 homes are without power, according to Hokuriku Electric Power Co. 
Heavy rain is also affecting nearby northern prefectures of Niigata and Yamagata, causing threats of flooding and other damages.
Earlier this year, a magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck the region on January 1, killing more than 370 people and damaging roads and other key infrastructure. Its aftermath still affects local industry, economy, and daily life. 
Our hearts go out to everyone affected. Stay safe and look out for each other! 
Reference(s):
Heavy rain pounds parts of Japan still recovering from deadly quake
cgtn.com
