German president Frank-Walter Steinmeier has said he is “stunned” by the devastation caused by freak flooding in Germany.

The president has pledged his support to those affected and has insisted on “determined” action on climate change. 

“The water is receding. The full extent of the disaster is only now becoming clear,” the president said.

“Perhaps, in a few days’ time, the terrible pictures of the flooding will not dominate the news – but that is exactly when people in the flooded areas will most need our continued support.

“We must not disappoint them,” he added.