Massive tornado rips through Oklahoma: over 50 people killed

A devastating two-mile-wide tornado touched down in Moore, a community of 41,000 people about 10 miles south of Oklahoma City yesterday afternoon Monday May 20th, killing over 50 people – including at least 20 children, with 24 more missing. Plaza Towers Elementary school was in the direct path of the giant twister and took a direct hit during 45 minutes of terror yesterday afternoon.

Homes, cars, a hospital and another elementary school were destroyed by the tornado. More than 120 people are being treated at hospitals, including about 50 children. The death toll is expected to rise.

President Barack Obama has declared a major disaster area in Oklahoma, ordering federal aid to supplement state and local efforts in Moore. See more photos after the cut