Monday, June 9, 2008

US hit by heatwave and flooding

The US Midwest is braced for more bad weather after a weekend of storms that left eight people dead and forced hundreds from their homes.

Meanwhile, the US east coast is suffering a heatwave, with temperatures forecast to hit 100F (38C).

Flood warnings remain in place for parts of Indiana, where rescuers have been using boats and helicopters to reach those stranded by rising waters.

More bad storms may hit Indiana, Kansas and Oklahoma on Monday.

State of emergency

President George W Bush declared a major disaster in 29 counties in Indiana late on Sunday, freeing up resources for aid efforts.