Georgia is holding a national day of mourning after floods yesterday (Sunday) killed at least 12 people and hundreds of animals in Tbilisi Zoo were drowned. Other animals escaped as the capital’s zoo was submerged under 6m (20ft) of water.

It is thought that the flood released about 30 animals – including lions, tigers, jaguars, bears and an alligator – from their enclosures, but it is not known exactly how many remain on the loose. A hippopotamus was among those returned to safety after it was tranquilised in the street.

The local authorities have advised Tbilisi citizens to remain indoors until all the animals have been found. The zoo has asked people not to shoot or harm the animals.

Tbilisi Zoo held a collection of 600 animals. Zoo officials said half of those were missing, with most believed drowned.

Two zoo staff and a third person died inside the zoo during the floods.