This archive report was first published on 5 July 2020.
Heavy rain has brought devastation to Japan's Kumamoto region, with at least 16 people confirmed dead and a dozen missing.
According to local media, the floods have destroyed homes, swept away vehicles, and caused bridges to collapse, leaving many towns submerged and communities cut off.
More than 200,000 people have been ordered to evacuate, with authorities urging those in emergency shelters to maintain social distancing to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
Disaster Management Minister Ryota Takeda said, "We will do our utmost to prevent the spread of the infection and make lives of those who had to flee their home as comfortable as possible."
Among the dead are 14 residents of a nursing home that was flooded after a nearby river broke its banks on Saturday.
Rescue workers and troops from the Self-Defense Forces are using boats and helicopters to reach those stranded in the region, where collapsed bridges and blocked roads have left many isolated.
A large "SOS" sign was created on the grounds of what used to be an elementary school in Yatsushiro city, where about 10 people waved white towels at rescue and media helicopters.
More rain was expected in the region on Sunday evening.
