At least 21 people reportedly killed after storms hit US south and midwest

Region also saw several evacuations amid severe rains, flooding rivers and tornadoes

At least 21 people are reported to have died after a series of deadly storms across the southern and midwest US, with severe rains, flooding rivers and tornadoes leading to several evacuations in the region.

Some cities ordered people to leave their homes as floodwaters rose. And rescue crews have been spotted using inflatable boats to check on residents in Kentucky and Tennessee.