The rescue services think on the basis of images that people are missing, but due to the unclear situation it is not possible to say with certainty whether there are any deaths or injuries. Local media reported that lightning struck Carinthia more than 5,300 times.
The landslides happened after severe thunderstorms. The storm has left a trail of destruction, authorities say. Austrian broadcaster ORF said several people trapped after the landslides have been rescued.
Thousands of homes without power
The damage is worst around Villach. There are several trees uprooted by hurricane winds. Power lines have also been broken, roofs have blown away and 6000 houses are without electricity.
The water is currently higher than in the past thirty years, according to the state. According to the weather forecast, it will rain in the area all day at least on Wednesday.
