The Latest: 3 counties get government aid after tornado

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (AP) - The Latest on recovery from a Jan. 21 tornado in Mississippi (all times local):

11 a.m.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is approving aid to governments in Forrest, Lamar and Perry counties following a Jan. 21 tornado.

Mississippi officials announced the approval Tuesday. State officials said earlier that Mississippi had to show $4.2 million in damage to public facilities to win such a declaration.

A tornado killed four people on a 31-mile path across Lamar, Forrest and Perry counties.

The money can be used to remove debris, repair government facilities and take emergency protective measures. Besides governments, certain nonprofit organizations such as electrical cooperatives are also eligible.

FEMA typically reimburses governments for 75 percent of the cost of work, with state and local governments splitting the remainder. Nonprofits must pay the full 25 percent.

The federal government earlier approved aid to individuals in Forrest, Lamar, Perry and Lauderdale counties.

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3:45 a.m.

William Carey University says it will have to demolish five tornado-damaged buildings including the oldest structure on campus - Tatum Court.

The Jan. 21 storm killed four and injured dozens across Lamar, Forrest and Perry counties.

Two buildings have already been demolished, and three more will be.

Spokeswoman Mia Overton said Monday that the Baptist university still plans to start its spring trimester on Feb. 20. By then, officials say, eight dormitories housing 739 students will be open.

They also say a number of classroom and administrative buildings will be open, including the school’s library. However, William Carey says some classes will continue to meet off-campus or online. Medical and physical therapy classes will meet at the University of Southern Mississippi, while music classes will meet at a church.