Disaster-trained volunteers from S.C. deploy to storm-damaged Miss., Ala.

HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WMBF) - Disaster-trained volunteers from the South Carolina Region of the American Red Cross are heading to Mississippi and Alabama to support disaster relief efforts after tornadoes touched down Friday.

In Mississippi, Red Cross volunteers mobilized relief supplies and disaster workers and are coordinating with local and state officials to help ensure people get the help they need.

Almost 140 trained Red Cross disaster workers are on the ground now in Mississippi and several trailers carrying relief supplies, including tarps, clean-up kits, first aid kits and more are en route to the area.

Officials reported the tornado in Mississippi was an EF-4 which carries winds up to 200 mph. The tornado lasted over an hour as it traveled more than 100 miles.

Preliminary estimates indicate as many as 2,000 structures in the state received major damage or were destroyed.

The American Red Cross of South Carolina stands ready to send additional disaster workers as requested.

You can make a difference in the lives of people affected by tornadoes and storms in the South. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word TORNADO to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to, and help people recover from these disasters. This includes providing food, shelter, relief supplies, emotional support, recovery planning and other assistance.

Ensure your donation helps people affected by Southern Tornadoes & Storms by choosing that option on redcross.org/donate or through 1-800-RED CROSS

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