US storms, 'devastating' flooding death toll climbs to 17

Flood warnings remain in effect, particularly in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Alabama, according to forecasters.

Tennessee has been the hardest hit, with 10 deaths recorded in the western part of the state.

Kentucky and Missouri each report two deaths, while Arkansas, Indiana, and Mississippi each count one, with tolls that could still rise.

In Jeffersontown, Kentucky, buildings were left destroyed by a reported tornado, an AFP correspondent saw.

Photos shared on social and local media showed widespread damage from the storm across several states, with homes torn apart, toppled trees, downed power lines and overturned cars.