Tornadoes rip through Central and Southeastern Virginia

Vessels of Mercy International is responding!

April 29, 2008 --- Three separate tornadoes touched down in Central and Southern Virginia leaving behind a path of destruction.

More than 200 people were injured and property damage is widespread including homes and buildings torn apart and overturned cars. The local hospital also suffered damage but remains functional.

Vessels of Mercy International is currently assessing the damage and the current needs and is ready to respond to those displaced by the tornadoes.

According to the National Weather Service, winds of 86 to 100 mph ripped through three areas:  Suffolk, Colonial Heights and Brunswick County Monday afternoon. Gov. Timothy Kaine declared a state of emergency for all areas damaged by tornadoes.

The storm's path started in North Carolina and made its way up through Virginia, finally breaking up as it passed over the heart of Hampton Roads.

Vessels of Mercy International is standing by to work with other relief agencies to help bring aid to those affected by the storm. In addition, construction loaders will be on-site later this week helping families clean up and remove debris.

*Associated Press contributed to this report.