21 killed as tornadoes sweep through US

KABUL (Pajhwok): At least 21 people have been killed after tornadoes, triggered by severe storms, swept through the states of Missouri and Kentucky in the United States, says a media report.

The storms are part of a severe weather system sweeping across the Midwest, leaving thousands without power, Al Jazeera reported.

In Missouri, St Louis Mayor Cara Spencer confirmed five fatalities in the city, noting that more than 5,000 homes had been damaged.

“Our city is in mourning tonight,” she said, adding: “The loss of life and destruction is truly horrific.”

In Kentucky, Governor Andy Beshear posted on X that 14 people had died in Friday night’s storms.

Another tornado struck Scott County, about 209km (130 miles) south of St Louis, killing two people, injuring several others and destroying multiple homes, Sheriff DerickWheetley wrote on social media.

“Our first responders acted swiftly, even while the tornado was still active, putting themselves in harm’s way to provide immediate assistance and care to those injured,” he said.

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