Tornado hits southwest Mo.; no injuries reported

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — Severe storms hit southern Missouri, spawning at least one tornado that ripped across southern Springfield, damaging homes and businesses.

Steve Runnels, warning coordination meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Springfield, said a tornado hit the southwest section of city about 10:15 p.m. Tuesday, causing damage that ranged from torn siding to ripped off roofs. No injuries were reported, Runnels said.

The tornado reached speeds up to about 100 miles per hour, he said.

Power outages and flooded roads were also reported elsewhere across southern Missouri from the storms. Some of the outages reported Wednesday were in northern Pemiscot County, where residents were still recovering from last week's severe ice storm.

The Missouri Department of Transportation said several rural highways east of Springfield were closed early Wednesday. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries from the flash flooding.

The department said roads in Wright, Ozark, Howell, Douglas and Texas counties were closed. Officials said three low-lying bridges in Ozark County were closed but were expected to open later Wednesday.

The National Weather Service also issued flood warnings for several small streams across the region.