A massive cyclone struck six states of the US, killed more than 80 individuals and many others are missing.
According to local media reports, over 70 individuals are killed in Kentucky alone as the tempest tore through a candle industry where people were working for the time being.
"It's a tragedy. We still don't know how many lives are lost and the full extent of the damage,” US President Joe Biden said in televised comments.
Officials carrying rescue and relief operations in the storm-hit states feel the death toll might rise further as they clear the routes and snow.
Briefing the media over the situation, Edwardsville fire chief James Whiteford told reporters the operation turned from rescue to focus "only on recovery," fuelling fears the toll could rise further.
According to an AFP report, at least one person died when a tornado almost destroyed a nursing home in Monette, Arkansas.