A landslide in southwest China's Yunnan province on early Monday has left 47 people buried, authorities said.

The disaster occurred at 5:51 am in Liangshui village in Zhenxiong county, Zhaotong city. The province has initiated a level-III disaster relief emergency response plan to facilitate search and rescue efforts, which are underway.

More than 300 rescue workers have been assembled, along with more than 50 loaders and fire trucks for rescue operation.

As of 10:30 am, more than 500 people have been relocated.