After devastating tornado, Joplin, Mo., officials search for victims, brace for new storm
Authorities say the death toll from the tornado stands at 89 but is likely to go higher. Search-and-rescue and relief crews race against an approaching storm, but their efforts are complicated by downed power lines, fires and transportation problems.
Reporting from Joplin, Mo. and Los Angeles— Search-and-rescue teams on Monday pored through rubble and wreckage, all that was left in many areas of Joplin, where at least 89 people have died, more than 2,000 structures have been ripped apart and whole neighborhoods have been obliterated after a tornado carved a six-mile path through southwestern Missouri. Would-be rescuers conducted door-to-door searches, avoiding downed power lines that had ignited fires fueled by leaking gas. Debris was a constant danger and a barrier to search teams. "We still believe there are people to be saved in the rubble," Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon told reporters, describing the carnage in what is the state's worst tornado disaster. He warned that another storm was on the way, complicating rescue efforts.
CSM: Missouri tornado killed at least 89 according to officials
Chicago Tribune: Pictures: Missouri storm damage