Japan The number of deaths from Typhoon Hagibis increased to 47, while search and rescue operations continued to take place in areas hit by floods and landslides.

The Japanese Self-Defense Forces (SDF), police and firefighters all participated in search and rescue operations in eastern and central Japan. As of this afternoon, at least 47 people have died, 15 have been missing and about 100 have been injured by Hagibis.

At a meeting of disaster response forces, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said the government would do its best to support the affected people. The government will also set up an interdisciplinary team to improve shelters and help displaced people find shelter.

Disaster and Fire Coordination Agency says about 38,000 people in 17 provinces have been evacuated from their homes. "There are concerns about the impact on life and economic activity. We will respond as best we can," Mr Abe said.

The Japanese Prime Minister instructs ministers to ensure infrastructure such as electricity, water, food and other necessities without waiting for the local government. In a private meeting, Defense Minister Taro Kono said SDF made every effort to cope with the disaster.

Hagibis, the 19th typhoon of the year that struck Japan on the evening of October 12, caused record rainfall, causing rivers to collapse, flooding residential areas and landslides in 11 provinces. Evacuees are still unable to return home and continue to shelter in places like schools.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism said 21 rivers in Nagano, Fukushima, Ibaraki and three other provinces had caused floods. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on October 13 sent deep condolences to the victims' families as well as the Japanese government and people, and wished the injured to recover quickly.