DHAKA: At least 20 people, including an eight-year-old boy and a toddler, have died in flooding in West Virginia, according to state officials.

Heavy storms and flooding have caused widespread damage throughout the state, said Governor Earl Ray Tomblin.

A state of emergency was declared in 44 of the state’s 55 counties, reports the BBC.

Rescue efforts were under way for about 500 people trapped in a shopping centre while officials continued to search for others stranded in devastated areas.

The flooding has destroyed more than 100 homes and knocked out power for thousands after a storm system dumped nine inches of rain on parts of the state.

The governor said 200 National Guard soldiers were carrying out search and rescue efforts as well as health and welfare checks in eight counties across the state.

A church pastor told the media an eight-year-old boy slipped, fell into a creek and was swept away.

BDST: 1233 HRS, JUN 25, 2016
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