In anticipation of severe weather on Saturday, Governor Kay Ivey has declared a state of emergency for all 67 counties ahead of the impending severe weather.

The declaration stated “The state of Alabama is at risk for potentially dangerous, severe weather throughout this weekend, so it is critical that everyone stays very aware of their local forecasts,” said Ivey. “Now is the time to make any preparations and have a plan, should the weather conditions become dangerous. Certainly, we are no stranger to Mother Nature’s wrath, but I encourage Alabamians to be vigilant beginning tonight. Stay weather aware and stay safe!”

Already, six people have died in the Midwest as the storm system moves across the country. The severe weather system is causing high winds, hail, lightning and even tornadoes in some areas.

The National Weather Service in Mobile, Alabama has advised there will be multiple rounds of severe storms expected today through tonight. All severe threats are possible with strong to violent, long track tornadoes being the main threat, while damaging winds and large hail are also possible in any storms that develop through the day.