Flash flooding and landslides have killed at least 32 people on the Portuguese island of Madeira. The island, which is extremely popular with tourists, has been inundated with heavy rain for several days now.

At least 68 people have been injured and an unknown number of people are still missing. The floods and landslides have washed away bridges and destroyed houses. Electricity and telephone cables have also been damaged. Television reports show water coursing through the streets of the capital Funchal and washing away cars and trees.

The southern part of the island has been particularly hard-hit. The airport has been closed and local authorities are advising people to stay at home.
 

The island of Madeira lies about 900 kilometres southwest of Portugal and about 500 kilometres from the West African coast.