You could literally hear just things ripping in the distance, glass shattering everywhere, just roaring like a freight train."

At least five people died and others were hurt after severe weather including a possible tornado swept through St. Louis, the mayor said.

A Laurel County, Kentucky firefighter who was injured while responding to storm damage overnight is among the 17 people who died, according to officials.

At least 18 people have died in Kentucky following severe weather that swept through Missouri and Kentucky. Gov. Andy Beshear said the fatalities were caused by a single tornado, initially estimated to be an EF3.

There is no doubt there, but tonight we are focused on saving lives and keeping people safe and allowing our community to grieve." The US National Weather Service said tornadoes also hit neighbouring Illinois,