Approximately 18 people perished and many more were injured in a series of powerful storms that struck the southern United States.

The states that had to experience the ugliest side of the storm were Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky and Mississippi. In those states were also reported numerous tornados that wrecked several buildings.

Rescue crews had a tough night during which they searched through the wrecked buildings for possible trapped survivors.
 
Arkansas and Tennessee were among the states holding nominating votes on Tuesday for November's presidential election.

Several incidents were caused by the tornadoes and high winds. For example, several people who found shelter under a bridge were swept into the river. Fortunately, they were rescued and suffered insignificant injuries.

A shopping mall located in Memphis, Tennessee was severely damaged and a dormitory at Union University in Jackson had the same fate. Fortunately, the people who got trapped in the wrecked buildings were rescued and no major injuries were reported.

Several tornadoes, wind damage and hail were reported in Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Texas, and Missouri.

Eight people have perished in Tennessee, seven in Arkansas and three in Kentucky. The death toll varies depending on the source. According to some sources, the series of storms has killed at least 22 people.

A couple and their 11-year-old daughter were killed in their home by a tornado which hit the town of Atkins in Arkansas.

"This was an extraordinary night," Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe said.

The National Weather Center is urging people in Kentucky to take shelter immediately as six tornados may hit their state.