One dead and one missing as Japan hit by heavy rain

Scientists say climate change is intensifying the risk of heavy rain in Japan, because a warmer atmosphere holds more water. - PHOTO: AFP

TOKYO (AFP): Heavy rains across parts of Japan have left one person dead and at least one missing, authorities said Saturday (July 1), as they issued evacuation warnings for nearly two million residents.

The country's weather agency has warned of potential landslides, flooding and other disasters in western, central and eastern Japan, as a seasonal rain front triggered strong downpours.