Kerala flood death toll rises to 24

The death toll from flash floods and landslides in India's southern state of Kerala rose to 23 on Monday as heavy rain poured down for a fourth day.

Rescue workers retrieved more bodies, most of them from Kottayam and Idukki districts when the rain had partially subsided in several parts of the state.

“We can confirm 24 deaths in rain-related incidents in the last 24 hours,” said T Sathi Kumar, an official at the state's Information and Public Relations Department.

Officials said earlier that at least 20 people were missing in the state after extremely heavy rainfall since Friday night, caused by a low pressure area over the Arabian Sea.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the victims' families and assured people of assistance.

“It is unfortunate that a few lives were lost in heavy rains and landslides in Kerala. Condolences to the families of the deceased," Mr Modi wrote on Twitter.

“Authorities are working on the ground to assist the injured and affected. I pray for everyone’s safety and well-being."