Japan searches for dozens missing in mudslide; 4 dead

By KANTARO KOMIYA and MARI YAMAGUCHI Associated Press

ATAMI, Japan (AP) — Rescue workers are digging through sludge and debris looking for dozens of people who may be trapped after a a torrent of mud, trees and rocks ripped with a roar through a Japanese seaside resort town.

Saturday's landslide has killed at least four people.

An official says 80 people are still unaccounted for.

Authorities plan to release their names, hoping that perhaps some were away when the disaster struck, since many of the apartments and houses in Atami are second homes or vacation rentals.

Officials say 25 people have been rescued.

The disaster is an added trial as authorities prepare for the Tokyo Olympics, due to start in less than three weeks, while Japan is still in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.