Several people were injured as the tornado swept through the town

City secretary Patricia Simms said at least four people were injured in the storm, which was one of six reported across the state.

About 20 homes were destroyed by the tornado, said Wayne Beighle, an official from the Department of Public Safety.

Tonya Smith and her husband were driving towards the town of less than 650 people when they saw the tornado form.

"It happened so suddenly, we thought it was just a really big dust devil, she said.

"It was right beside us. We stopped and watched it until we realised what it was," she said.

More deaths

Authorities from the surrounding area were brought in to help clear up the town, while the Red Cross set up a shelter for those left homeless by the tornado.

Last week, several tornadoes ripped through south-eastern states of the US, killing five people and injuring scores.

The weather system battered communities from Missouri to Maryland, tearing off roofs, uprooting trees and overturning cars as it swept eastwards.