Athens flash floods: At least 16 people die as water engulfs areas of Greece's capital

Greece declares national day of mourning after raging torrents destroy homes

At least 16 people have been killed and scores left homeless after flash floods hit the area surrounding the Greek capital Athens.

More than 20 people have been injured in the disaster, described as “biblical” by officials.

Greece has declared a national day of mourning after raging torrents destroyed homes and infrastructure and turned over cars.

Some residents were forced to scale rooftops to flee the rising floodwater, as cars were swept down the street.

Rescue teams are searching homes for residents who may be trapped.

Severe flooding severely damaged parts of the municipality of Madra yesterday (AP)

Twelve of those killed were found in or near the small town of Mandra on the outskirts of the capital, which was hit hardest by the flooding.

“Everything is lost. The disaster is biblical,” Mandra Mayor Yianna Krikouki told state broadcaster ERT.

“This is a very difficult moment for our country. We mourn the deaths of 14 people in what is a great disaster,” Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said in a televised address.

“It is the wish of all of us that this number does not increase.”

“Immediately and without delay support measures will be adopted for households and businesses affected,” he said.

More torrential rain is expected on Thursday, risking further damage.