Death toll could reach 50,000 in China

Associated Press

LUOSHUI TOWN, China -- Electricity has been restored to some parts of central China left ravaged by Monday's powerful earthquake.

Chinese state media say areas near the epicenter remain blacked out.

China warns the death toll from the quake could hit 50,000. Just over 19,500 people are confirmed dead.

As hopes remain slim for people buried in collapsed buildings, rescuers appear to have shifted efforts to the task of recovering bodies.

Still, a 22-year-old woman, was saved after three days buried in the rubble. She said she was "confident" she'd be rescued.

The government is asking the Chinese public for donations of rescue equipment, including hammers, shovels, demolition tools and rubber boats.

China is also easing up on resistance to foreign help. Teams from Japan and long-time foe Taiwan are joining the effort.