Directions for prevention (38) Evacuate at the first sign of trouble

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　From June to October, the Japanese archipelago experiences heavy rainfall due to rainy season fronts and typhoons. Heavy rains often cause floods and landslides. During typhoon No. 19 in 2019, there were 254 cases of landslides and mudslides in Miyagi Prefecture alone.

　If you hear a roaring sound like mountains rumbling or stones crushing against each other, it may be a precursor to a mudslide. If the water level of a river is decreasing despite continued rainfall, a landslide may have occurred upstream, blocking the river.

　You should also pay attention to cracks appearing on slopes or muddy water in streams or wells.

　During long rains, stay away from areas at risk of landslides, pay attention to landslide warning information, and evacuate as soon as you notice the first signs. If the surrounding area is flooded, avoid any dangers by taking shelter in a room on the second floor or higher of a sturdy building on the opposite side of the slope.