US President Barack Obama declares disaster as West Virginia floods death toll climbs to 24

The death toll from flooding in the US state of West Virginia rose to 24 Saturday, as President Barack Obama declared a major disaster, releasing federal aid for some of the hardest-hit areas.

The president "ordered federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides," the White House said in a statement.

Days of heavy rain have caused massive flooding in the state, where high waters have washed away cars, trapped hundreds and cut power to large areas.

More than 21,300 people were without power across the state Saturday evening according to the West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

Hundreds of homes had been severely damaged or destroyed and more than 60 roads remained closed, it said...
 zeenews.india.com/AFP
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Related:

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