US News
Death toll rises to 20 after Florida tornadoes
Feb 4, 2007, 14:36 GMT
Washington - US President George W Bush declared disasters Saturday in four Florida counties where an outbreak of tornadoes early Friday left 20 people dead.
Another victim was found Saturday, raising the toll from the previous count of 19 dead. Authorities fear more dead could still be found as the rubble left in the wake of the violent funnel clouds continues to be searched.
Florida Governor Charlie Crist said Saturday that at least 1,500 homes were destroyed or seriously damaged. Florida National Guard troops were mobilized to help with emergency efforts and cleanup work.
Bush's disaster declaration makes the state and local governments eligible for federal financial assistance for the costs incurred from the storms, including response, emergency housing, cleanup, reconstruction and disruption to businesses.
Statewide damage estimates already topped 100 million dollars on Saturday and could rise further.
During the storm, top wind speeds of up to 260 kilometres per hour were recorded.
© 2007 dpa - Deutsche Presse-AgenturCOMMENT
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