Spectacular tornado scene in the United States

Missouri officials, US, said at least 116 people are now confirmed dead after the "biggest ever" tornado struck Joplin city on Sunday, crushing vehicles and flattening. House.

Houses on a hill in Joplin are tornadoes "islands".

However, 7 people were saved.

The tornado carrying hail and high winds is currently hindering the search for rescue. Joplin official, Mark Rohr, said tornadoes swept 10km across the city, causing most cities to lose power. Tornadoes swept the power line, telephone service is still largely interrupted.

Missouri governor Jay Nixon said he was " optimistic that there were still survivors out there who could be saved". More than 1,150 people have been treated for tornado wounds.

The head of the Joplin fire department said nearly a quarter of the city with about 50,000 or more people was damaged. About 2,000 buildings in the area were damaged, officials said. Governor Nixon declared a state of emergency and warned the area to suffer more storms.

Video: The scene after the tornado