Tornado claims lives after ripping through Hattiesburg, Mississippi

By Renee Duff, AccuWeather meteorologist

January 21,2017, 10:01:05AM,EST

 

 

Four people have been confirmed dead by the city of Hattiesburg after a large tornado tore through the town of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, during the early morning hours on Saturday.
WDAM-TV in Hattiesburg has reported significant damage in the town. Mayor Johnny DuPree signs an emergency declaration for Hattiesburg due to significant injuries and structural damages.

Cars were tossed around like toys and damage to power lines, trees and structures were also reported. A storm report said a semitrailer was blown over on US highway 80 west of Montgomery near Benton, Alabama.  
A new round of severe thunderstorms, including tornadoes, will once again threaten Hattiesburg on Saturday evening. Hattiesburg has received 3.45 inches of rain in the last 12 hours.

Mississippi Power is reporting more than 9,600 meters without power as of 7:30 a.m. CST.
William Carey University and a local fire station took direct hits from the tornado.

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Damage to #WilliamCarey school of business building. Windows blown out, glass everywhere, streets flooded. @RyanMooreMS

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Local officials report that there are multiple injuries.
RELATED:
Rounds of severe storms to threaten southeastern US through the weekend
Detailed Hattiesburg forecast
Southeast interactive radar
After ripping through Hattiesburg, the storm raced northeastward. Nearby Petal, Mississippi, also sustained major damage.
This is a developing story. Check back for continued updates.