The Zambian government said on Friday that it has stepped up efforts to help over 250 families displaced by flash floods in the eastern district of Mambwe.

The government said it has mobilized resources such as food, tents and medical supplies to help the families.

Flash floods as a result of heavy rains in recent days have displaced the residents while crops have been submerged in water.

Olipa Phiri, Minister in the Office of the Vice-President that deals with disasters, said an assessment has revealed that many houses have collapsed and that people have no shelter.

"Looking at the situation, the rains are expected to continue and as government we are ready to handle the situation to help the affected families,” she said.

According to her, the affected families were currently being kept at a local school but noted that the families will be moved to higher ground as schools will soon open.