KIGALI, Rwanda (AP) — A Rwandan government official says at least 49 people have been killed by landslides in the country's north following heavy rains on Saturday and Sunday.

Disaster Management and Refugee Affairs Minister Seraphine Mukantabana told The Associated Press Monday that torrential rains in the area about 80 kilometers (50 miles) from the capital, Kigali, had destroyed several homes, stranding many families.

She said most of the victims lived in the Gakenke district, where 34 deaths have been recorded and more than 500 homes destroyed. He said children and the elderly have been especially hit by the landslides.

Northern Rwanda is particularly hilly, making it vulnerable to landslides. The government has been encouraging some residents to relocate to safer areas.