In pictures: French floods

1 of 9 Large areas of south-eastern France are under water as torrential rain and heavy winds bring flooding and death

2 of 9 France's second city, Marseille, was declared a disaster zone as tunnels flooded and bridges collapsed

3 of 9 In remote areas, boats sailed across flooded fields to rescue trapped householders

4 of 9 Boats were also used in Marseille to bring residents to safety, after the floods left wrecked cars piled up

5 of 9 Firefighters joined rescue efforts as thousands were evacuated from their homes

6 of 9 President Jacques Chirac toured the region to show his solidarity and promise aid

7 of 9 Motorists in southern France have been warned not to use the roads - a woman was swept away while driving

8 of 9 Another man was drowned after being trapped in an underground passage

9 of 9 Rescue efforts in Grigny and many other areas continued overnight. Experts warn that rains will continue until Thursday.