A series of powerful tornadoes killed at least three people in southwestern Missouri causing extensive damage in Jefferson City, the state capital, on May 22, 2019. /VCG Photo

The tornado touched down in Jefferson City around 11:40 p.m. local time, ripping buildings apart and overturning cars. /VCG Photo

The tornado's funnel was wider than its height, and sent debris as high as 13,000 feet into the air when it struck, the National Weather Service said. /VCG Photo

Authorities said the three were killed in the Golden City area of Barton County, near Missouri's south-west corner, as the severe weather moved in from Oklahoma, where rescuers struggled to pull people from high water. /VCG Photo