Obama declares ‘major disaster’ as Superstorm Sandy batters U.S, Canada

United States President Barack Obama on Tuesday declared a ‘major disaster’ in New York and Long Island as Superstorm Sandy battered homes, offices and other structures on the nation’s East Coast, killing no fewer than 17 persons, skynews reports.

At least 84 flights between the U.S east coast and London Heathrow have been cancelled while fire fighters are having a tough time battling blazes at various places hit by the superstorm.

A number of towns in New York were flooded after a levee broke while many people have fled their homes.

It was raining heavily in Manhattan, New York all Tuesday morning while the streets were free of traffic.

Tree branches also littered the streets while many have been left without power.