BEIJING - China on Tuesday sent its condolences after a deadly tornado struck the US state of Oklahoma.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said at a regular press briefing that the Chinese side extends its deep condolences to the victims, as well as sincere sympathy to the wounded and disaster-affected people.

"May they overcome the difficulties and rebuild their homeland soon," he said.

The tornado struck the southern suburbs of the Oklahoma state capital Monday afternoon, killing at least 24 people, according to local officials.