In pictures: Russian flood misery

Villagers in southern Russia are struggling to overcome severe floods, which have already killed at least 46 people. Hundreds of others are missing, and up to 20,000 are stranded. Chechnya and neighbouring regions in the North Caucasus are worst hit.

Elderly villagers are struggling to save their livestock

People are salvaging what they can from their homes

Villagers are powerless against the rising waters

Roads have been left barely passable by car

Forecasters say the waters are expected to rise further