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Death toll from Japan's torrential rain rises to 52

TOKYO, July 7 (KUNA) -- The death toll from a series of mudslides and floods caused by torrential rain in Japan's southwestern region of Kyushu rose to at least 52 and 12 others are still missing, local authorities said Tuesday.
In Kumamoto Prefecture, one of the hardest-hit areas, at least 51 people reported dead following record downpour since Saturday.
Rescuers, including police officers, firefighters and Self-Defense Forces personnel, are continuing search and rescue efforts.
Authorities issued evacuation orders to 1.36 million people on Kyushu Island earlier in the day.
The Japan Meteorological Agency said heavy rain is expected to continue in wide areas of the country through Wednesday, urging people in the affected areas to continue to stay alert for flooding and mudslides, (end) mk.gta