The death toll from a landslide in southwest China's Sichuan Province has risen to nine, local officials said Friday.

The landslide, triggered by heavy rain, swept away three houses in Banpo Village, Leibo County, early Thursday morning, the county publicity department said.

Three villagers were confirmed dead Thursday afternoon and six other bodies were found hours later, the department said.

The local government has provided relief funds, food and tents for victims of the landslide.

The torrential rain also disrupted local traffic and communications.

(Xinhua News Agency August 28, 2009)