Trees Down, Outages As Storms Rake U.S. Midsection

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — A winter storm has been ripping through the nation's midsection, with thunderstorms, damaging winds and possible tornadoes.

One person was struck by lightning and injured in Arkansas, where there are downed trees and scattered power outages. Entergy Arkansas says at least 9,000 homes and businesses lost electricity in several communities, including in and around Little Rock.

Forecasters say they're checking reports of possible twisters in the state — one near Little Rock and two in northwestern Arkansas.

Tennessee and Mississippi emergency officials also warned residents about severe weather overnight.