N. Korea sends military to flooded areas

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PYONGYANG, North Korea, Aug. 1 (UPI) -- Combat helicopters were deployed in North Korea to areas hit by last week's flooding but a U.S. official said there were no discussions on aid.

Pyongyang said at least 88 people died and 60,000 people were left homeless following flooding near the capital and other areas last week.

A South Korean military official told the Yonhap news agency, that North Korean combat helicopters were deployed to areas hit by the flooding.

"It seems (North Korea) has suffered severe flood damage considering it has mobilized combat helicopters that were placed on the forefront," he said.

A U.N. team arrived in North Korea Tuesday to help with disaster response.

North Korea had brokered a deal with the United States for food assistance in exchange for a halt to missile and nuclear activity. The deal collapsed in April, however, when North Korea tried to send a long-range rocket into orbit.

White House spokesman Jay Carney, during this regular press briefing, said there weren't "any discussions about that issue (assistance) here at the White House."