A powerful storm system roared across the Midwest and South Friday night, unleashing a series of tornadoes that carved paths of destruction and left at least three dead in Missouri.

At least 10 people have died in Missouri after tornadoes ripped through across the central and southern part of the US, authorities said. The state's governor has warned of more severe weather, including tornadoes on Saturday.

A severe weather system spawned intense, long-duration tornadoes that struck parts of Arkansas, Mississippi and Missouri, leaving some communities in tatters.

At least 18 people have been killed in a monster storm sweeping across much of the U.S. As of Saturday afternoon, Missouri had recorded more fatalities than any other state