Damage estimates following Alabama tornadoes rise
The number of potential homeowners insurance claims resulting from the most recent string of tornadoes to touch down in Alabama continues to rise, as officials now say approximately 500 houses sustained damage.
The National Weather Service says preliminary estimates show the severe weather system spawned 10 tornadoes Monday, which led to more than 100 injuries and caused Alabama Governor Robert Bentley to declare a state of emergency in all of the state's 67 counties.
The strongest of the twisters was an EF-3 event with top wind speeds of 150 miles per hour that left a trail of damage more than 15 miles long. Officials say the Center Point Elementary school in Jefferson County will need to be completely rebuilt.
"Our Emergency Management Agency will continue to monitor this severe weather and will be prepared for any potential impact on our communities," said Bentley. "I urge Alabamians to heed weather warnings to protect their families, homes and businesses."
Severe storms have continued to batter the area. The National Weather Service issued potential tornado warnings in the Birmingham area through Friday morning.
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- Total costs from Minneapolis tornado reach $80 million May 21, 2012
- Analysis shows more than $2B of insurance claims from Joplin tornado May 18, 2012
- Recovery continues for Michigan tornado victims May 17, 2012
