At least 49 people have died in India, including nine due to the collapse of a temple, after massive floods and devastating mudslides, which also left dozens of people missing, according to a new report from authorities Monday 14 August.

In the worst-hit state of Himachal Pradesh, 41 people died in the last 24 hours, compared to 16 in the previous report. Nine of them died in the collapse of a Hindu temple in the capital Shimla. At least eight other people have died in the neighboring state of Uttarakhand since Friday, according to local authorities.

Days of heavy rain destroyed bridges and buildings and washed away vehicles in the two states, which are located in the north of the country. During the rainy season, floods and landslides are common and cause considerable damage. According to scientists, monsoon rains are stronger and more frequent due to climate change.

said Indian President Draupadi Murmu “injured due to loss of human life in an accident related to heavy rain”. M^I Murmu also offered his condolences to the families in Himachal Pradesh state, which have been hit the hardest by the bad weather. In the most affected areas, main roads and power lines were badly damaged, blocking thousands of people. The rail network also suffered heavy damage.

80% of the annual rainfall in the rainy season

“The local government is clearing the rubble to save people who may still be trapped”, said Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Prime Minister of Himachal Pradesh state in a statement. He asked residents to stay at home and avoid going near rivers. Schools in the state have been closed.

During the rainy season, floods and landslides are common. They cause considerable damage and their numbers are increasing, according to climate change experts.

In July, days of monsoon rains killed at least 90 people in India, while the Yamuna River, which flows through the Indian capital, New Delhi, recorded its highest level since 1978.

Monsoon rains account for about 80% of annual rainfall in South Asia. They are essential for river levels, groundwater recharge and agriculture. But they also cause death and destruction.