Death toll rises to 25 after landslide buries dozens in southwest China in freezing winter temperatures

The death toll from a landslide in southwestern China has reached 25 as rescuers continue to comb mud, snow and rubble in search of survivors.

There are 19 people still unaccounted for, reported state broadcaster CCTV on Tuesday.

Authorities have mobilized more than 1,000 rescue workers and 45 rescue dogs for the search mission following the landslide, which hit the mountain village of Liangshui, in Yunnan province, shortly before dawn Monday, when most residents were asleep.

A total of 18 homes were buried, and more than 500 people evacuated.

Dozens of fire engines and pieces of earth-moving equipment were also deployed as part of rescue efforts.