Severe weather slams US south, killing four.

      SEVERE weather slammed the southern U.S. two days before Christmas killing at least four people and knocking out power to thousands.In Mississippi, Gov. Phil Bryant declared an emergency for two south-eastern counties where officials said four people died in the storms and several more were injured. His office said thousands were without power Tuesday night around Columbia, which is about 130 kilometres southeast of Jackson.
      Emergency Management director Marda Tullos said a man and woman were killed inside a mobile home in the storm’s path in Laurel. About 80 kilometres southwest, coroner Norma Williamson said two people were killed in Columbia. One person was in a trailer park, another at a strip mall.
      Marion General Hospital had treated about 50 patients since the severe weather swept through, said spokeswoman Millie Swann.