HATTIESBURG, Miss. (AP) - The Latest on recovery from tornadoes that hit Mississippi Saturday (all times local):
2:35 p.m.
Gov. Phil Bryant says President Donald Trump has issued a disaster declaration for four Mississippi counties following tornadoes Saturday.
The declaration makes people in Forrest, Lamar, Perry and Lauderdale counties eligible for individual assistance up to $33,000. It also includes money to reduce hazards statewide.
A tornado ripped a 31-mile path across Lamar, Forrest and Perry counties, killing four. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency counts 60 injuries statewide. State officials estimate more than 1,200 homes sustained damage from Saturday’s storms, with more than 500 destroyed or seriously damaged. Though damage was reported in eight counties, more than 90 percent is in the cities of Hattiesburg and Petal and adjoining areas of Forrest County.
People can apply at www.disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).
FEMA will open local disaster offices later.
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4 a.m.
A Mississippi university heavily damaged by Saturday’s tornado is taking more steps toward recovery.
William Carey University asks students to return to campus Wednesday through Friday to retrieve personal belongings and vehicles. Spokeswoman Mia Overton says the college will have counselors and pastors on hand to help students who may be traumatized.
The school will start online classes for medical students Wednesday. Also, intercollegiate athletes will move into a dorm on the University of Southern Mississippi campus and resume practice. Athletic director DJ Pulley says William Carey is likely to play “home” basketball games at Jones County Junior College or Pearl River Community College.
William Carey said it hopes to publish a list of classes that will conclude its winter term online in the next two days.
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