The devastation from the violent storms and tornadoes on 27 April continues to take a toll on Cullman County as officials begins to address tremendous losses in the poultry industry.

According to Cullman Times, damage figures in Cullman County are unknown at this time but losses have occurred here and throughout north Alabama. Storms have destroyed at least 200 poultry houses in north Alabama but other farmers are losing chickens because of power loss.

Murray Griffin of the United States Department of Agriculture said: "We don't know how many overall have been lost but the state veterinarian has issued a blanket order to bury the birds if the soil is suitable. But that cannot be done until the site is inspected for suitability."

Mr Griffin and Tim Scott, project coordinator for Alabama Soil and Conversation, are available to make inspection for poultry farmers who have suffered losses.

"If they can't bury them on the property, we will find an answer for what can be done," Mr Griffin said.

Poultry houses can contain as many as 20,000 chickens. Farmers regulate the temperature of the houses to ensure the health of the birds, added Cullman Times.