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‘Most everything wiped away’: Tornado kills at least 25 in Mississippi

At least 25 people are dead and dozens more are injured after a devastating tornado swept through Mississippi on Sunday evening, leaving behind a path of destruction that has left many families in the region devastated.

The powerful tornado, which touched down in the city of Petal, MS, has left a wake of destruction in its path, with nearly all of the city’s businesses and homes destroyed. According to reports, the tornado was at least one mile wide and had winds of up to 170 miles per hour.

“It’s just devastating,” said Petal Mayor Hal Marx. “Most everything has been wiped away.”

Witnesses have described the destruction as “like a war zone,” with buildings ripped apart, trees uprooted, and cars flipped over. The National Weather Service has declared a state of emergency in the area, and search and rescue operations are still underway.

At least 25 people are confirmed dead, and dozens more are injured, with many being treated at local hospitals. The death toll is expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue.

Governor Phil Bryant has declared a state of emergency and has deployed the National Guard to assist with relief efforts.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones who have been impacted by this devastating tornado,” said Governor Bryant. “We are doing everything we can to help those affected by this tragedy.”

This is not the first time the region has been hit by a deadly tornado, as just last year, a tornado in Tupelo, MS killed 14 people.

The tragedy has left many in the region in mourning, and it is still too soon to tell the full extent of the destruction.