Albania declares emergency, evacuates people from flooded areas

By: The Associated Press

TIRANA, Albania - Hundreds of people are being evacuated from northwestern Albania as their homes are threatened by widespread flooding.

The government declared a state of emergency Wednesday in northwestern districts following days of torrential rain.

Army and police are helping local authorities evacuate areas in the Shkodra district, 75 miles (120 kilometres) northwest of the capital, Tirana, along the Drini River delta. Evacuees are being taken to private hotels and public facilities as weather worsens.

Hydroelectric power generated from the river covers the bulk of Albania's energy needs. Prime Minister Sali Berisha says the flooding has resulted in an increase of energy output.