FLASH FLOODS and landslides have killed over 100 people in Rwanda.

Heavy rain triggered the flooding in the wester and northern areas of the country, according to reports by the state-run broadcaster.

Authorities are searching for survivors who are believed to be trapped in their homes.

“Our main priority now is to reach every house that has been damaged to ensure we can rescue any person who may be trapped,” François Habitegeko, governor of Rwanda’s Western Province, told Reuters.

On Tuesday evening the heavy rain caused the River Sebeya to burst its banks flooding neighbouring villages.

Video footage uploaded by the Rwanda Broadcasting Agency showed muddy water flowing quickly through roads and destroying homes in its path.

The death toll previously stood at 95, but has now increased to 109 – which includes deaths from a second region in the Northern Province.

According to Mr Habitegeko, some people have been taken to hospital for treatment, but the number of people rescued has not been disclosed.  

In the Western Province of Rutsiro, 26 people were left dead, making it one of the hardest-hit areas.

The floods claimed the lives of 19 people in Nyabihu and 18 people are believed to have died in Rubavu and also Ngororero.

The Rwanda Meteorology Agency has forecasted above average rainfall for May for the East African nation.

Other parts of East Africa are also experiencing heavy rainfall and flooding.

According to the Uganda Red Cross, six people died overnight in the southwestern Kisoro district, after heavy rains in the mountainous region.

Five of those who died are from one family.

In a statement, the Red Cross said evacuations have begun and the search to retrieve bodies is underway.