Torrential monsoon rains killed at least 26 people as a result of floods, landslides and house collapses in the southern Indian state of Kerala, with more than 15,500 people taking refuge in state aid camps.
A senior government official, Pinarai Vijayan, said the flood situation became "very grim" when lock gates from nearly two dozen overflowing reservoirs were opened.
The relief official said that about 200 army soldiers joined rescue workers in the most affected areas of Ayankulu, Idukki and Vayanad.
According to the official, at least 26 people have died since Wednesday.
Monsoon rains kill hundreds of people every year in India.
The monsoon season lasts from June to September.