Virginia Tornadoes

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - At least 200 people were injured today as severe storms swept through central and southeastern Virginia.

Governor Tim Kaine declared a state of emergency for areas of southeastern Virginia damaged by apparent tornadoes. Suffolk city spokeswoman Dana Woodson said two apparent tornadoes passed through the city Monday afternoon. She initially said one person died in the storm, but she and city police spokeswoman Lieutenant Debbie George later said that death was not connected to the storm.

Bob Spieldenner from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management said at least 200 were injured in Suffolk. At least 18 others were injured when the storm hit Colonial Heights.

Spieldenner said Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk was damaged, but remained operational and was accepting patients. The injured also were being taken to another hospital in the city.Sentara spokesman Dale Gauding said about 60 people were being treated at Obici, and he expected most to be released.

In Colonial Heights south of Richmond, the storm overturned cars and blew out vehicle windows in the Southpark Mall area. Some buildings also were damaged.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Comments

[Lois]

Does anyone know if Kelso Ct., in Suffolk, Va. was affected by the tornadoes this evening ?

[Darrell Kirk]

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