JEFFERSON CITY: A 'violent tornado' touched down in Jefferson City, Missouri, causing heavy damage, according to the National Weather Service, but there were no immediate reports of fatalities.

The service reported that a 'confirmed large and destructive tornado' was observed over Jefferson City at 11:43 pm Wednesday (Thursday in Manila), moving northeast at 40 mph (64 kph). The capital city has a population of about 40,000 and is located about 130 miles (209 kilometers) west of St. Louis.