Directions for prevention (3) Avoid going to rice fields and irrigation canals

Due to the effects of a stationary front, a record-breaking heavy rainfall occurred in mid-August, particularly in western Japan. There were long spells of rain as if the rainy season returned, and many rivers in various areas flooded, causing inundation damage.
　
When rivers overflow, low-lying areas become like rivers covered in murky water. Not only is it difficult to differentiate between roads and ditches, but you also cannot tell what lies under your feet. Getting stuck or falling over in deep water can be life-threatening.

On the 14th of the same month in Hiroshima Prefecture, a man in his 80’s left home telling his family, “I’m going to check on the water level in the rice field.” He was reported missing and his body was found 4 days later.

In heavy rainfall, it is natural to be worried about the crops we worked hard to raise. However, your family would be beside themselves with worry if you were to go out to check on the rice field in heavy rain. Please put safety first, not just for yourself, but also for your family.