Thousands stranded at Japan's Narita airport after record rain kills four

Thousands of travelers were stranded at Tokyo's Narita airport on Friday morning following record rainfall that inundated surrounding areas, disrupted transportation, and caused power outages for nearly 25,000 households. The deluge occurred during one of Japan's busiest holiday weeks.

Authorities confirmed at least four deaths, including one individual found trapped in a submerged vehicle. Soldiers have been deployed to the affected Chiba prefecture, which adjoins Tokyo, to aid in relief operations. Chiba Governor Toshihito Kumagai described the situation as "extremely unusual, even by Japan's historical weather standards," stating he had never experienced a disaster of this magnitude.

The transport disruptions left approximately 7,000 people stranded at Narita airport, though a spokesperson indicated all flights were scheduled to operate normally. Japan Airlines noted potential delays but no cancellations were expected. Major highways, including those connecting Narita airport to central Tokyo, remained closed, causing heavy traffic on alternative routes. Several rail services were suspended, although some trains to Tokyo had resumed operation by Friday morning.

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This case was an extremely unusual situation, even by Japan's historical weather standards. I have responded to many disasters in the past, but I have never experienced a case like this.