U.S. President George W. Bush on Friday visited Tennessee, one of the areas that were affected by the tornadoes that swept through five states earlier this week.

Thirty two people were reported dead in Tennessee during the two days of agonic tornadoes, while the total for all the five states including Arkansas, Mississippi, Kentucky and Alabama was 59.

People have got to understand here in the region that a lot of folks across America care of them now, said Bush.

There's no doubt in my mind this community will come back better than before, added Bush during his visit near the Kentucky border. Macon County people are down-to-earth, hardworking, God-fearing people. They're just getting a little help and will come back stronger.

Before the visit, Bush declared disasters in Tennessee and Arkansas, a move that will allow federal funding to cover some of the costs, shared with local governments, for debris removal and protective measures to help individuals.

Bush toured the disaster zone in a helicopter from Nashville, together with Congress from Tennessee.

James Bassham, director of the state's emergency management agency said it was remarkable more lives were not lost since 31 touchdowns were recorded.

Meanwhile, some 230 Macon County residents were still missing.

Utility crews continued to restore power across the county on Friday.

George W. Bush Tennessee