Authorities reported that nearly 300,000 people were placed in relief camps in the states where the flood situation was raised to the highest category.

India's Meteorological Department said about 40 percent of the total monsoon rains that have fallen all year to flood-hit areas have fallen in the past 10 days.

The armed forces were assigned to evacuate the people to temporary relief camps set up by the government.

Rescue efforts continue in flood-affected areas, officials say.

ILKHA