Large amounts of rain have led to streams flooded over and roads turned into rivers. In some parts, up to 20 centimeters have been measured, reports the news agency AP.
Pictures from the affected areas show water -filled houses, lower trees and abandoned cars on the flooded streets.
Warning for harsh winds and floods has been issued in the states of Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas and Virginia. National Weather Service urges residents not to go out in traffic.
Eight of the deaths have occurred in the state of Kentucky. The majority, including a mother and a 7-year-old child, died after their car stuck and buried in the water masses.
Disaster authority activated
At Kentucky’s Governor Andy Beshear’s request, President Donald Trump has approved an activation of the FEMA disaster authority to coordinate search and relief efforts in the state.
“In the course of 24 hours, rescue personnel have completed over a thousand life -saving efforts,” Beshear said according to CNN.
In addition to flooding, the weather has caused a power outage for about 39,000 households.
Andy Beshear has described the storm as “one of the most serious weather events we have handled for over a decade.”