The Portuguese military has sent specialist rescue teams to the island of Madeira, where at least 40 people are known to have died in rainstorms.Tonnes of mud and stones were brought down the slopes of the island, flooding the streets of the regional capital, Funchal, and other towns.
Officials fear the death toll could rise. Water, power and phones were cut in some areas.
PM Jose Socrates, who is in Madeira, said he would "do everything to help".
A Portuguese Navy ship, with a helicopter and medical equipment, has departed for Madeira - which is located about 900km (560miles) from the Portuguese mainland and is popular with foreign tourists.......read more>>
