Red Cross Reports Illinois Tornado Recovery Continues

The American Red Cross says recovery efforts are continuing in parts of Illinois hit by deadly tornadoes a year ago.

The not-for-profit relief group said Tuesday there are still nearly 500 active cases being addressed in the affected communities one year after the tornadoes. The Red Cross reports that some residents have ongoing mental health issues, homes in need of repair or soil contamination.

The storms on Nov. 17 of last year damaged or destroyed hundreds of homes in central Illinois. Neighborhoods were flattened in towns such as Washington and Gifford. More than half a dozen people died as a result.

Officials say nearly 90 percent of the money donated to the Red Cross for the disaster has been spent or committed to be spent in coming recovery projects.