Torrential rain and flooding batters northern India

Heavy rain has caused catastrophic flooding and landslides in several Indian states in the last few days, killing at least 19 people and leaving hundreds more stranded. Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Haryana states have been the worst affected, with roads, homes and bridges being swept away by the torrential floodwater. Himachal Pradesh has seen over 10 times its normal amount of rainfall, with 14 landslides and 13 flash floods reported in just two days. The flooding has led to the suspension of normal life as people are urged to stay indoors by local officials, and schools, colleges and other public buildings are closed.