23 dead, scores injured as tornado rips through Mississippi

At least 23 people have died after a tornado tore through the US state of Mississippi on Friday night.

Dozens of residents have been injured while four persons are said to be missing.

The numbers are expected to rise as search efforts are underway to rescue people thought to be trapped under knocked-off buildings, according to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MSEMA).

The tornado caused devastation in several rural towns, yanking roofs off homes, nearly levelling some neighbourhoods and causing power outages.

Videos shared on social media showed piles of rubble, wrecked cars and search teams sifting through debris for survivors.

🚨 Devastation in Rollingfolk, Mississippi. At least 7 people confirmed dead after tornado hit, officials say #mswx | #mississipi | #tornado pic.twitter.com/XECOkhkjr1

— The Kenya Times (@thekenyatimes) March 25, 2023

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8:40PM CDT: Storm chaser @VinceWaelti is witnessing power flashes from the large and extremely dangerous tornado that was on the ground just northeast of Silver City, MS. #MSwx pic.twitter.com/SBA0XwBkRP

— RadarOmega (@RadarOmega) March 25, 2023

Extensive damage path in Rolling Fork.

Reports of Major Damage in Silver City #Mississippi after a devastating #tornado passed through the area.

Multiple People are Trapped with multiple Search and rescue are underway.#TORNADOWARNING #emergency #Tchula #Cruger #BlackHawk pic.twitter.com/NufsIlyV46

— News Update (@ChaudharyParvez) March 25, 2023

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It is unclear whether one or several tornadoes hit the affected areas.

In a tweet on Saturday, Tate Reeves, governor of the state, expressed his condolences to the victims of the disaster.

“At least twenty-three Mississippians were killed by last night’s violent tornados. We know that many more are injured. Search and rescue teams are still active,” Reeves tweeted.

“The loss will be felt in these towns forever. Please pray for God’s hand to be over all who lost family and friends.”

MSEMA said plans were underway to roll out information regarding sheltering and feeding operations.

More tornadoes are expected in other towns in the US.