The death toll from torrential rain and landslides in western Japan has risen to 88. Dozens remain missing after the rescue of more than 2-thousand stranded in the city of Kurashiki. Our Toby Muse has the latest.

Record rainfall in Japan has led to the deaths of dozens with many more missing. The downpours have unleashed floods and landslides. High waters have swept cars away and uprooted trees.

LOCAL RESIDENT "The flood came toward us and was only 30 meters away. I rushed my family into the car and crossed over the bridge to reach shelter. It was quite dangerous. I am 58, and this is the first time that I've experienced such a situation."

Many homes have been destroyed. Authorities warn the risk will continue even after the rains let up. Some 50-thousand people, including soldiers and police, have been deployed to find and rescue survivors. In the city of Kurashiki, in western Japan, the military helped evacuate patients and medical staff from a hospital roof.

SHINZO ABE JAPANESE PRIME MINISTER "We will continue to do our utmost to save lives and to lead and guide evacuations. There are still many anxious people at evacuation centers. We will do our utmost using our expertise."

Eight districts, including Kyoto and Hiroshima, have been impacted. The Japan Meteorological Agency said during a three hour period, Kochi received 26.3 centimeters, more than 10 inches, of rain, the highest since records began four decades ago. Millions have been urged to leave their homes to avoid the flooding. Those who can't escape have been told to seek refuge on their roofs. Toby Muse, CGTN.