China landslide clean-up

Heavy machinery and dynamite is being used to clear debris-clogged rivers and hillsides across flood-hit China, as recovery teams work to avoid the threat of further landslides.

Soldiers and rescue workers continued the clean up operation in Zhouqu, after at least 1,248 people were killed as the mudslide triggered by heavy rain crashed through the city in Gansu province on August 8.

The government says another 496 people are still missing and one-third of the town is still under water following the disaster.

Soldiers used excavators to dredge the mud and rubble from the river bed to prevent further landslides.

While in Yingxiu, Sichuan Province, recovery teams used explosives to blast through mud and debris blocking off hillsides and roads, amid fears they could dam rivers and cause further flooding.

State television said "moderate to heavy rain" was expected for Tuesday through to Thursday.