Flood waters have receded in and around the Philippine capital Manila, as authorities continue efforts to help the more than 2 million people affected.

At least 20 people have died in Manila as a result of the flooding, powered by more than a week of monsoon rains. Nearly 300,000 residents have sought shelter in evacuation centers.

The Philippine weather service has lifted its storm warning for the Philippine capital. But emergency workers in boats continue round-the-clock efforts to rescue those stranded by the floods.

Government agencies have been communicating via the social networking site Twitter. They have given regular updates on locations of the heaviest rainfall, which roads are passable and other brief messages.

The government has placed 20 cities and provinces under “a state of calamity,” which means they will receive national disaster funding.