Multiple people have been killed in Alabama after a tornado hit small communities south of Birmingham on Thursday, according to local news reports.
The storm inflicted extensive damage, including to numerous homes and a civic center, police said. Utility lines had also been downed along several highways, police said, warning people to stay off the road and away from tornado-damaged areas.
Images circulating on social media showed heavy winds, flattened homes and trees and power lines that had been struck down.
A “severe weather outbreak” has been predicted across the southern US, including multiple lightening, high winds and tornados.
The state’s governor, Kay Ivey, said: “Significant and dangerous weather continues to impact portions of Alabama.
“Tragically, we are receiving reports of loss of life,” she said, according to a statement on Twitter. “Unfortunately the day is not over yet.”
More details soon …