Much of the calamity centered around the Kuma River, which broke its banks at several locations after torrential rain struck the area early Saturday, causing massive flooding.
Here are a few scenes of the destruction.
Boys from a local junior soccer team help clean up after mudslides hit Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto Prefecture, on Sunday. | KYODO
An evacuation center was opened in Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto Prefecture on Saturday. Extra space was left between groups to avoid spreading the coronavirus. | KYODO
The Self-Defense Forces personnel conduct a rescue operation in Kuma, Kumamoto Prefecture, on Sunday morning. | KYODO
An evacuation center was opened in Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto Prefecture on Saturday. Extra space was left between groups to avoid spreading the coronavirus. | KYODO
A man is rescued by boat in Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto Prefecture, on Saturday afternoon. | KYODO
Self-Defense Forces personnel conduct rounds to check on residents' safety in Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto Prefecture, on Saturday afternoon. | KYODO
A provided photo shows houses in Asagiri, Kumamoto Prefecture, inundated with water following torrential rains on Saturday. | KYODO
A house is collapsed in Kuma, Kumamoto Prefecture, on Sunday. | KYODO
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