WASHINGTON, April 24 (Xinhua) -- A tornado touched down Saturday in Southern U.S. state of Mississippi, killing at least 2 and damaging around 20 houses.

The tornado razed across three counties in mid-eastern Mississippi. Yazoo City Mayor McArthur Straughter said at least two were killed, he called the tornado "devastating," as 15 to 20 buildings sustained extensive damage.

The tornado was reported to be over a kilometer wide, striking Valley Park, Yazoo City and Durantand. It has moved towards Alabama. Authorities in Mississippi said they were conducting emergency response in several counties.

Heavy storms swept across Southeast United States on Saturday. The sky was darkened as rain and lightning were seen across the region. Many areas were put under tornado watch.