Death toll from flooding in Beijing rises to at least 60

Beijing: The death toll from flooding caused by heavy rains in and around Beijing has climbed to at least 60, authorities said on Thursday.

In the Chinese capital, the number of dead rose from 30 to 44, while at least eight people were reported to have been killed in neighbouring Chengde city, as rescue efforts to locate those still missing continue.

A home for the elderly on the outskirts of Beijing was particularly hard-hit, with the facility suddenly submerged by water on Monday morning.

Most of the residents were dependent on care. Emergency responders were initially unable to reach the facility in Miyun due to the currents.

At least 37 deaths have been confirmed in the neighbourhood so far, according to officials.

More than 80,000 people had to be evacuated due to the flooding, including around 17,000 in Miyun.

Roads in the region were flooded, cars were swept away and parts of the infrastructure severely damaged.

State television showed images of soldiers supplying devastated villages with relief supplies.

At the beginning of the week, the water level of a reservoir in Miyun reached its highest since it was built in 1959.

Authorities began to release water in a controlled manner and warned residents that water levels would continue to rise.

Severe storms tend to occur in several parts of China this time of year, often resulting in fatalities.