People living in parts of southwestern Japan are waiting for relief from days of torrential downpours.

Officials are warning people to watch for hazards, after flooding and mudslides killed at least 7 people in Kyushu this week.

Authorities say the soil in many areas is waterlogged, creating a high risk for landslides. Kurume in Fukuoka Prefecture was placed on a maximum alert on Wednesday, before being downgraded. Residents are still being advised to avoid low-lying areas, and be prepared to flee to higher ground. On Monday, Kurume recorded its highest-ever rainfall over a 24-hour period.

Japan's Meteorological Agency said atmospheric conditions are extremely unstable in wide areas from western through northern Japan. That's due to a seasonal front and cold air mass over the Japanese archipelago.

Downpours are pounding parts of Kyushu already suffering from flooding and other disasters. Rain is also developing along the Sea of Japan's coast in the Chugoku, Hokuriku and Tohoku regions.