Story highlights Weeks of heavy rain and flooding have inundated Chennai, India

In 24 hours, Chennai received as much rain as London would in 6 months

(CNN) Weeks of heavy rain and flooding have knocked out power, suspended public transportation and left people stranded in Chennai, one of India's largest cities.

The Indian army and navy are carrying out rescue operations, the Indian defense ministry told CNN. The Indian Coast Guard is also working to rescue people.

At least nine people have died so far in severe flooding that has hit Chennai in recent days, according to a Tamil Nadu state official tally released Wednesday.

Army rescue teams helping residents of Chennai. pic.twitter.com/NVyXm9WK2o — DPR (@SpokespersonMoD) December 2, 2015

Emotional images of dramatic rescues in inflatable boats and civilians hoisting people over muddy flood waters have inundated social media under the hashtag #Chennaifloods

Baradan Dharumaiyan captured footage of cascading water lapping at peoples' knees in Kotturpuram, Tamil Nadu state.

Read More