TOKYO (AP): Heavy rains sparked flooding in central Japan, killing one woman and leaving a man in serious condition Friday.

Authorities ordered the evacuation of 14,000 households in Okazaki, southwest of Tokyo, and about 100 soldiers were deployed to help with rescue efforts, police spokesman Kazumi Yamagawa said. City officials said about 50 people had been evacauted.

One woman was founded drowned in her home in Okazaki and a man was in serious condition, Yamagawa said.

TV images Friday morning showed widespread flooding in the area, with heavy damage to houses and roads, and cars stranded in the water.

Yamagawa said the area had been hit with very heavy rains late Thursday evening, but the weather was clear early Friday.