Authorities say at least five people are dead in Missouri and Oklahoma after severe storms that included tornadoes. The National Weather Service (web|news) says three people died Saturday after a tornado hit near Seneca in southwestern Missouri's Newton County. Meteorologist Bill Davis says a fourth person died near Carthage. An official in Picher, Okla., says at least one person is dead after a twister there.

The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management says workers are trying to free people trapped in rubble in Ottawa County.

The Weather Service says reports of damage are coming in from the Arkansas towns of Stuttgart and Searcy. An elderly woman is reported trapped in her home.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.

GREENSBORO, N.C. (AP) - A deadly tornado that raked across three counties damaged about 100 homes and businesses, Gov. Mike Easley said as he toured the path of destruction Saturday.

Easley said it would take several days before officials know what type of government assistance to request for victims of the storm, which hit late Thursday and early Friday. One person was killed and eight were injured, he said.

"Nobody is displaced at this point," Easley said. "Everybody has family and a place to go."

Eight homes were destroyed and at least 92 homes and businesses were damaged, Easley said after an aerial tour of damage in Guilford, Forsyth and Davie counties.

The National Weather Service said the funnel had winds as high as 135 mph.

Email To A Friend