(CNN) -- The death toll rose to at least 96 people on Sunday after massive landslides hit northwest China, state media reported.
About 2,000 more people are missing after the landslides, which were triggered by heavy rains, Xinhua news agency said.
The landslides occurred early Sunday morning after heavy rains started pummeling the area Saturday, authorities said.
They caused the Bailong River to become obstructed and overflow, and sent water rushing water over its banks, state-run CCTV reported.
Mao Shengwu, head of Gannan district, said the water levels were rising as much as 1 meter (3.3 feet) every five minutes.
Some residents waited for help on top of their roofs, Mao said, adding that the government is focused on rescuing those affected by the landslides.
