(CNN) — A powerful storm system that spawned suspected tornadoes — and at least one with winds estimated at 170 mph — left destruction and death in its wake as it pushed through the Midwest today, leaving at least nine dead and more than 100 injured, authorities said.
Other possible tornadoes are expected into the evening as the storm pushes toward the Mid-Atlantic region, according to CNN meteorologist Sean Morris.
Such activity was possible in northern Alabama, extreme north Georgia, southern and eastern Kentucky, northern Mississippi, western North Carolina and much of Tennessee, he said.
In addition to possible tornadoes, the storm itself will carry thunderstorm winds as strong as 80 mph.
Among the hardest hit cities was Harrisburg, Illinois, where at least six people were killed, according to the governor’s office. The dead included four women and two men.
The tornado that hit Harrisburg was preliminarily rated an EF4 — the second most powerful on the rating scale — according to the National Weather Service. A report indicated the tornado had winds estimated at 170 mph.
