Tornado Hits Southern US... At Least 6 Dead

[Asia Economy Reporter Yuri Kim] A powerful tornado swept through Mississippi in the southern United States, killing at least six people, AFP and other foreign media reported on the 13th.

Mississippi authorities announced on the 12th (local time) that at least six people lost their lives due to the tornado that struck the area and declared a state of emergency. According to initial counts by fire authorities, all six fatalities occurred in the southern region of Mississippi.

Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves said on Twitter that day, "I have declared a state of emergency for the health and safety of Mississippi residents," adding, "authorities are mobilizing all resources to protect residents and their property."

The U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) also raised the tornado warning to the highest level. The Storm Prediction Center under the NWS forecasted severe thunderstorms continuing through the night in Mississippi as well as neighboring Alabama and Georgia. The Storm Prediction Center explained, "There is a possibility of powerful tornadoes, damaging winds causing widespread damage, and large hail."

Earlier, Governor Reeves urged local residents to be cautious about the storm starting from the morning. The state disaster authorities also tweeted advising residents to cover their nose and mouth and maintain social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 among those seeking shelter from the storm.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.