Grim search in ravaged US town as tornado kills 116

US : Rescue crews clawed through the rubble Monday searching for survivors after a tornado in Missouri killed 116 people, amid warnings that more powerful storms were bearing down on the area.

"That's all that's left," said resident Roger Dedick as he pointed to a section of foundation, the remains of his home of 17 years in Joplin after the deadliest single tornado in six decades ripped through the town. He had had to use a metal bar to pry himself out of his crushed home.

Down the street, Carolyn Hall fought back tears as she and her teenage sons combed their destroyed home hoping to find some clothes and the family cat.

Only a few interior walls remained standing, but after a desperate search came a ray of hope when they found the terrified cat hiding under a bed. Joplin, Tuesday, AFP