AMERICAS 
One dead as tornadoes sweep US
Friday, 11 April, 2008
Double lightning strike in Texas (AAP)
Powerful storms and at least one tornado have battered three states across the central US, leaving one woman dead and causing flooding and widespread power cuts.
Hail and high winds have swept across Arkansas, a state already contending with three weeks of flooding and the aftermath of 10 tornadoes that hit the region last week.
Most of the state is under a flash flood warning and forecasts warn a new round of storms could include further tornadoes later in the day.
Roads are flooded and people have been urged not to travel unless absolutely necessary.
"It's just getting worse," said sheriff's dispatcher Nola Massey. "We're just trying to get everybody to stay home and not get out in it."
Vehicles flipped over
In Oklahoma, state officials reported damage to more than 200 homes and businesses from strong winds.
A tornado with winds of up to 112km/h moved through west Texas, tearing shingles from roofs, shattering glass and flipping vehicles.
Tens of thousands of homes and businesses lost electricity in Oklahoma and the Dallas area.
Homes were damaged in Texas, and flooding in Oklahoma forced about a dozen state highways to close; some schools called off classes for the day.
A woman died in Oklahoma when her car skidded off the road during downpours, and three people were treated for minor injuries in Texas.
Source: AP/SBS
Hail and high winds have swept across Arkansas, a state already contending with three weeks of flooding and the aftermath of 10 tornadoes that hit the region last week.
Most of the state is under a flash flood warning and forecasts warn a new round of storms could include further tornadoes later in the day.
Roads are flooded and people have been urged not to travel unless absolutely necessary.
"It's just getting worse," said sheriff's dispatcher Nola Massey. "We're just trying to get everybody to stay home and not get out in it."
Vehicles flipped over
In Oklahoma, state officials reported damage to more than 200 homes and businesses from strong winds.
A tornado with winds of up to 112km/h moved through west Texas, tearing shingles from roofs, shattering glass and flipping vehicles.
Tens of thousands of homes and businesses lost electricity in Oklahoma and the Dallas area.
Homes were damaged in Texas, and flooding in Oklahoma forced about a dozen state highways to close; some schools called off classes for the day.
A woman died in Oklahoma when her car skidded off the road during downpours, and three people were treated for minor injuries in Texas.
Source: AP/SBS
