AKIPRESS.COM - At least nine deaths are being reported from severe storms blowing through the South, but the toll could rise, the U.S. media report Tuesday.

In Mississippi, officials say up to seven people have been killed. State Director of Health Protection Jim Craig said Monday night that officials are working with coroners to confirm the total, according to AP.

In Alabama, Emergency Director Rita White said the coroner's office had confirmed two deaths in a twister that caused extensive damage west of the city of Athens.

White says still more victims might be trapped in the wreckage of damaged buildings, but rescuers can't reach some areas because of downed power lines.

The storms were among a rash of twisters and violent storms across the Midwest and South that killed 17 people in all on Sunday.