After pounding South Florida, Katrina hit the U.S. Gulf Coast as a Category 4 storm, the most powerful hurricane to strike the area in more than 35 years. Katrina caused massive destruction in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.
AP Picture - Courtesy of CNN - (All rights reserved)
The death toll from the storm is estimated to be at least 120, but officials expect it to be much higher. More than 2.3 million people don't have power in Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama and Florida. Disaster response officials are urging evacuated residents not to return for at least a week to areas of Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi hit hard by Hurricane Katrina.

Debris floats around homes inundated in New Orleans.	Floodwaters fill the streets Tuesday near downtown New Orleans.	Residents walk through floodwaters on Canal Street in New Orleans.

AP Picture - Courtesy of CNN - (All rights reserved) Louisiana Gov. Blanco declared Wednesday a day of prayer. "As we face the devastation wrought by Katrina, as we search for those in need, as we comfort those in pain and as we begin the long task of rebuilding." We encourage all our members that would like to help, to please make donations to a reputable charity. The American Red Cross is a proven, reliable organization. CNN has set up a special page to assist people that want to help and those that need help. (CNN) -- Where to turn for information, how to help May our gifts help ease some of the suffering and bring comfort to those that need it during this difficult time. Our deepest sympathies to the victims and their families. -the Renderosity Staff