National Guard troops marking homes that need assistance in Kentucky

Troops mark homes; Kentucky is warned of strong winds
Story Highlights
NEW: One mayor says it may be two months before county has all electricity back

National Weather Service warns winds could knock loose trees down

National Guard troops marking homes that need assistance

More than 400,000 Kentuckians without electricity

LOUISVILLE, Kentucky (CNN) -- National Guard troops were going door to door Sunday in Kentucky, checking on families in the worst-hit areas of what Gov. Steve Beshear called "the biggest natural disaster that this state has ever experienced in modern history."


The devastating ice storm has been blamed for at least seven deaths in Kentucky, Beshear said. In total, 21 deaths have been reported in the state since the storm hit on Tuesday, but authorities could not immediately confirm whether all were directly storm-related.

The "unprecedented" call-up of the National Guard includes 4,600 troops in various roles.

Of 120 counties in the state, 92 had declared emergencies, the governor's office said. More than 400,000 customers were without power. See images of the ice storm's aftermath »

Temperatures were higher Sunday -- in the 40s -- which meant some relief, but also new problems. Melting ice and snowcan make it more difficult for utility trucks to reach certain areas.

And the National Weather Service warned of another potential problem: winds that could knock down loose trees.
click link for more