New York: Deadly tornadoes and severe weather killed at least 22 people and injured more than hundred in the states of Missouri, Oklahoma and Georgia as they destroyed houses and downed trees and power lines.

Hundreds were left homeless and relief agencies were providing them with temporary accommodation.

Rescue workers were searching through debris in affected areas of three states as the storm moved on to New York and adjoining states yesterday Sunday but with weakened ferocity.

President George W Bush said the federal government would be moving hard to help and provide assistance to affected states.

Reports said at least 15 people died in Missouri, six in Oklahoma and one in Georgia during last two days.

Thousands were without power and emergency crews were trying to restore electricity but it could take time as they have to cut through fallen trees at several places.

Television images showed several houses ripped off their foundation and cars being tossed around by the twisters and high winds.

The weather service said that the current season has been very active so far as tornados are concerned having seen 819 twisters touch down compared with an average of 539 from January to May end in the previous three years.

Source : PTI