19 Jul 2010

Flood toll rising in Japan

6:06 am on 19 July 2010

The number of people who have died because of heavy rains in Japan has risen to 10.

Flash floods and mudslides through central and western Japan since Wednesday have destroyed homes and swept away vehicles.

Large areas of farmland and some towns are still underwater.

Several people are still missing.

Military helicopters and boats have been used to help residents trapped in flooded homes.