Flash flooding around the French Riviera has killed at least 16 people, some drowned in a retirement home and others trapped in cars and campsites. 

Residents of the picturesque and touristy region, stunned by the ferocity of the brief downpour Saturday night, described it as the worst flooding they'd ever seen. It was so dramatic that it prompted President Francois Hollande to pay an emergency visit Sunday to promise government aid for victims.

Hundreds of emergency workers were involved in rescue efforts, helped by clear skies around the region Sunday.