Governor Tomblin offers assistance to tornado victims

West Virginia is reaching out to those affected by the devastating tornado in Moore, Oklahoma.

Governor Earl Ray Tomblin stated in a release Wednesday that he spoke with Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin and offered West Virginia emergency response resources to assist with the recovery efforts following the storm.

“In my conversation with Gov. Fallin, I offered our emergency response resources to assist with recovery efforts-letting her know we are prepared to help out in any way we can,” said Tomblin in the release.

At least 24 people were killed and more than 200 injured Monday afternoon when a massive tornado leveled the Oklahoma City suburb of Moore.

In addition, Tomblin said the state has also reached out to Oklahoma’s National Guard and Department of Emergency Management to offer support.

Oklahoma City officials have estimated that around 12,000 to 13,000 homes have been damaged by the tornado along with two area schools.

In the release Tomblin asked for prayers for those affected.

“Joanne and I continue to pray for the communities, throughout the Midwest, affected by the tornadoes and severe storms-especially those in Oklahoma City and the surrounding area,” he said. “We ask all West Virginians to keep the families affected by this disaster in your thoughts and prayers.”

Monday’s tornado has been given a EF5 ranking, putting it in the same class as the deadliest in U.S. history, which hit Joplin, Mo., in 2011, killing 158 and injuring hundreds more.