4 killed as severe weather criticises southern US

Severe weather slamming the southern U.S. two days before Christmas killed at least four people, flipped cars, knocked out power to thousands and damaged several homes and businesses, Fox News reported.
In Mississippi, Gov. Phil Bryant declared an emergency for two southeastern counties where officials say four people died in the storms and several more were injured. His office said thousands were without power Tuesday night around Columbia, which is about 80 miles southeast of Jackson.
Jones County Emergency Management director Marda Tullos said a man and woman were killed inside a mobile home in the storm's path in Laurel. About 50 miles southwest, Marion County coroner Norma Williamson tells WDAM that two people were killed in Columbia. One person was in a trailer park, another at a strip mall.
She said the Marion County hospital emergency room in Columbia was dealing with many patients.
National Weather Service meteorologist Latrice Maxie said significant damage has been reported to homes and businesses in the city of about 6,500 people.
A survey team will be sent Wednesday to determine whether a tornado was responsible, she said. Storm spotter said it was.