Thousands stranded at Japan’s Narita airport after record rain kills 4

Tokyo's Narita airport was inundated with record rainfall and subsequent flooding, leaving thousands of travelers stranded on Friday. The unprecedented downpour, measuring an astonishing 360mm over 24 hours, caused widespread disruption across Chiba prefecture, a region neighboring the bustling capital of Tokyo. Roads and railways were inundated, rendering transportation nearly impossible, while power outages left numerous households without electricity.

The death toll rose to four, with victims trapped in submerged vehicles and one missing person. In response to the crisis, soldiers were swiftly deployed to aid relief efforts. Authorities confirmed that over 22,000 households remained without power at 11am on Friday, according to Tokyo Electric Power, a leading utility provider.

The situation was particularly dire in Chiba city, one of the hardest hit areas. Hundreds of residents sought refuge under foil blankets at government buildings transformed into temporary evacuation centers. Those stranded at Narita, an airport spokesman reported, numbered around 7,000, though all flights were scheduled to operate as per the usual schedule. Japan Airlines indicated that while some flights might experience delays, no cancellations were anticipated at this time.

Highways in the affected region were closed, prompting drivers to take alternative routes and creating heavy traffic conditions. Several rail services also remained suspended, although some trains connecting Narita to Tokyo resumed operations, reducing congestion at the international hub. Overnight, stranded passengers at the airport gathered to collect essential supplies such as blankets, water bottles, and snacks, provided by airport staff.

Public broadcaster NHK captured footage of the scene, capturing the solemn atmosphere as one American traveler expressed his gratitude and stated that he and his family would never forget their ordeal.