Tokyo

At least six people went missing on Monday after torrential rains triggered floods and landslides in southwestern Japan.

In the Kyushu and Chūgoku regions, rains since the weekend have flooded several rivers and there have also been reports of landslides, blocking roads, affecting train services and disrupting water supplies in some areas.

Japan’s meteorological agency has issued heavy rain warnings for Fukuoka and Oita prefectures and urged people living along river banks and in mountainous areas to exercise extreme caution.

More than 1.7 million residents living in sensitive areas have been urged to move to safer places.

The Fire and Disaster Management Agency said at least six people were missing. Footage aired on Japan’s state broadcaster NHK television showed water from the overflowing Yamakuni River flowing over a bridge in the town of Yabakei, Ōita Prefecture.