Alabama death toll rises to 23

Muscat: Death toll in Lee County, Alabama has risen to 23 after deadly tornadoes struck the American city, authorities have confirmed.

Speaking to reporters, Sheriff of Lee County, Jay Jones, said that the death toll had risen to 23 and that a six year-old was among the deceased.

Describing the damage as "catastrophic", Jones added, "It’s knocked them (the people) down, but they will be back.”

He later said that they were very fortunate because no more bodies had been discovered and rescue crews were still searching debris.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the tornado that struck Lee County was given a preliminary rating of four on the Enhanced Fujita Scale (EF) and moved at speeds of 170 mph (over 273 kmph).

NWS also confirmed that other tornadoes had caused damage in the remainder of the state, including counties of Butler, Crenshaw, and Washington.

They added, "The tornado that touched down south of Tuskegee and tracked into Lee County has been upgraded to an EF-2 (115 mph).

In a show of solidarity with those affected, President Donald Trump said, "We grieve by your side and we pledge our unwavering support to help you rebuild from the very depths of this horrible tragedy."

"Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been told directly by me to give the 'A Plus' treatment to the Great State of Alabama and the wonderful people who have been so devastated by the tornadoes. Governor Kay Ivey, one of the best in our country, has been so informed," she stated.

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed an expedited major disaster declaration request and called on Trump to approve the state's need for immediate assistance in Lee County.

"Earlier today, President Trump pledged his unwavering support for the folks of Alabama and assured me FEMA will be there to help," she said.