Scores of people have been killed in the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, and other northern regions by mudslides triggered by torrential rains. President Hugo Chavez called it the country's worst disaster in 50 years.

Rivers and drains burst, flooding the capital.

Streets and buildings were swept away by the landslides.

Caracas and nine northern states have been declared disaster areas. The sign on the car reads: For sale.

Rescuers are working frantically to reach those trapped in their homes.

Shanty settlements perched precariously on steep mountain sides have been the worst hit.

Emergency services say thousands of people have lost their homes.