At least 23 people have died and dozens are injured after tornadoes ripped through the US state of Mississippi.

Destruction and emergency services at the scene after tornadoes tore through the US state of Mississippi - MISSISSIPPI HIGHWAY PATROL HANDOUT/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

© MISSISSIPPI HIGHWAY PATROL HANDOUT/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Several people are missing with people thought to be trapped under destroyed buildings. 

The tornadoes left a trail of damage for more than 100 miles, and other southern states are also braced for powerful storms.

Damage in Rolling Fork, a small town town in western Mississippi, is reported to be severe. 

Local resident Brandy Showah told CNN: "I've never seen anything like this... This was a very great small town, and now it's gone."

Mississippi's governor, Tate Reeves, said on Twitter: "Many in the MS [Mississippi] Delta need your prayer and God's protection tonight. Watch weather reports and stay cautious through the night, Mississippi!", Mr Reeves wrote.

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