Severe flooding in southern Germany, especially in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, has caused the evacuation of thousands and the death of a firefighter.

Around 20,000 emergency responders are currently engaged in rescue operations, with a total of 40,000 rescuers involved since Friday.

The German army has joined the rescue efforts as rivers in the region continue to rise.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his condolences for the fallen firefighter and plans to visit the affected region on Monday.

The flooding, triggered by days of heavy rain, is described as the most extreme ever seen in the area.

Schools in eight administrative districts in Bavaria have cancelled classes for part of the week due to the flooding.

The German Meteorological Service warned of further heavy rainfall, with some regions already receiving more than a month's worth of rain in just 24 hours.

Authorities are urging caution and preparedness for more extreme weather events, which are linked to climate change.