Russian floods leave three dead

VLADIVOSTOCK, Russia -- Three people have died in torrential rains which flooded the Pacific port of Vladivostok.

A month's worth of rainfall hit within two hours, destroying homes and cutting off power and water supplies.

Forecast reports expect the rain to continue for a few more days, according to the regional Emergencies Ministry.

A 15-year-old boy died after he was carried off into a river that flows through the city. Details about the other deaths have not been released.

Pedestrians caught in the flood linked hands to form human chains as they waded to shelter.

The city's average monthly rainfall of 144 millimetres (5.76 inches) fell in one day, filling streets with water up to one metre (one yard) high.

EM spokesman Aleksei Komarov said at least three homes were entirely washed away, while many first floors of apartment buildings had been flooded.

The Navy sent two armoured personnel carriers to clear roads that had been blocked by stalled vehicles.

The Trans-Siberian railway was closed down because the tracks were immersed in water and a bridge had been damaged.

Vladivostock airport also cancelled most flights due to the heavy rains and flooded runways.

Komarov said efforts to give aid to those areas cut off due to floodwater and mudslides would be hindered until the rainfall slows down.