Catastrophic tornadoes have devastated communities across the midwest and south United States for the second consecutive weekend, spurring action from the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team.

The natural disasters have resulted in at least 27 fatalities so far; the number continues to climb.

In response, the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) has sent chaplains to Covington, Tennessee, and Sullivan County, Indiana, to offer emotional and spiritual support to those affected.

Josh Holland, International Director of the BG-RRT, said: "We know that there was widespread damage from this weekend’s storm.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of this community, who have suffered such great loss.

“We want to make sure residents know they are not alone and not forgotten. In the midst of the storm, there is hope – that hope is in Jesus Christ."

The crisis-trained chaplains will work alongside disaster relief organisation Samaritan's Purse to provide a “comforting presence,” pray with residents, listen to their stories, and share God's love during these trying times.

Currently, BG-RRT chaplains are offering support in seven locations. Besides Covington and Sullivan County, they have already been deployed to Little Rock, in Arkasas following another recent tornado.