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Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi visited Niigata Prefecture to encourage the residents of the areas that have been affected by the torrential rains that caused 15 deaths and significant damages to roughly 25,000 households, such as floods both below and above floor level. Prime Minister Koizumi first visited Sanjyo City, where he was given accounts on the damage and the progress of restoration operations from Mr. Ikuo Hirayama, the Governor of Niigata Prefecture. He then surveyed a blade factory, the local industry of Sanjyo City and received a report on the damages caused by the flood from the manager of the factory while taking a look at those damaged operating machines and stocks. In response, Prime Minister Koizumi encouraged the manager by saying "please keep your hopes up." Prime Minister Koizumi then visited Nakanoshima Town which suffered from tremendous damage with 60 percent of the entire town under water following the collapse of the embankments. He walked around on the muddy roads, stopping at fully or partially collapsed houses and giving his words of appreciation to the residents who were busy with restoration of the city. Prime Minister Koizumi next visited the Cultural Center of Nakanoshima Town, where approximately 170 residents are still taking refuge, and gave his words of encouragement to them. After these visits, Prime Minister Koizumi said to the press, "The actual condition is worse than as can be seen on TV. The designation of this area as a severe disaster zone shall definitely be considered," and expressed his intention for the Government to fully engage in the efforts for reconstruction.