hree more US states Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama have declared a state of emergency, as tropical storm Isaac approaches. Earlier, Florida had done the same to make federal funds available for flood preparations and possible relief work. 

Isaac is forecast to gather strength and turn into a Category-II hurricane within one or two days. It now seems to be heading for Louisiana, where almost seven years ago hurricane Katrina destroyed much of New Orleans, killing more than 1800 people.

Eastern US devastated by storm and resultant black out is facing challenge for restoration of power supply and other essential services. Yesterday, a woman utility worker on power supply restoration work was killed in a truck accident taking death toll to 25. Official sources confirmed that more than nine lakh commercial and residential establishments are still without electricity.

Tropical Storm Debby has drenched the U.S state of Florida bringing flooding to parts and leading the Governor to declare a statewide emergency. The knot of low pressure has lingered over the Gulf of Mexico since Sunday evening bringing a constant barrage of wind and rain. State officials say at least 35,000 homes and businesses have had power knocked out by the extreme weather. One woman died on Sunday after the storm whipped up tornadoes. Crews in Alabama are meanwhile continuing their search for a South Carolina man missing off the coast. 
Residents in low-lying neighbourhoods near the Florida coast have been advised to leave their homes, while the bridge to St George Island, a popular vacation spot, has been closed off.

Florida Governor Rick Scott declared a statewide emergency yesterday.