BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- Officials in Mississippi say four people were killed early Saturday when a tornado ripped through the Hattiesburg area.
Greg Flynn of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency said rescuers are still searching the stricken area for more possible victims.
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Flynn said "massive damage" was reported in a three-county area that was struck by a tornado at around 4 a.m.
The three counties affected are Forrest, Lamar and Perry counties.
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The Mississippi Highway Patrol is reporting Interstate 59 north of Hattiesburg is closed due to debris. Downed power lines and debris have been reported over a wide area.
The public is asked to avoid travelling.