Severe storms struck the southern United States on Thursday evening, spawning scores of devastating tornadoes and killing at least seven people.

Over the course of the day, the National Weather Service reported 45 potential tornadoes, however, that number could be updated.

Six people were killed by storms in Alabama's central Autauga County, according to Gary Weaver, deputy director of emergency services.

A tornado blasted over the downtown section of Selma, a crucial place in the 1960s civil rights movement, knocking off rooftops and downing trees.

Moments ago as the Alabama tornado moved north of Prattville and across Interstate 65 #alwx pic.twitter.com/VTcfyLDdXd

— Steve Glazier (@SteveGlazier) January 12, 2023

The storm caused "serious" damage, according to Mayor James Perkins, who asked locals to stay off the roadways and away from downed power lines.

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey said in a tweet that she was "saddened to discover that six Alabamians were lost to the storms."

The system moved east to sweep neighboring Georgia, where a six-year-old girl was killed by a fallen tree.

"Our entire family is heartbroken over this tragedy," tweeted the state's governor, Brian Kemp. "As we continue to monitor state response to these storms, we are praying for this family as they mourn this terrible loss." 

It is worth noting that tornadoes, a weather phenomenon that is both dramatic and difficult to anticipate, are rather common in the United States, most notably in the country's central and southern regions.

This tornado intercept video from @ReedTimmerAccu is absolutely jaw-dropping

Video is from a few days ago in Colorado but there is currently a life-threatening tornado outbreak happening in Alabama. Hoping everyone is staying safe and sheltered pic.twitter.com/nzXo8KfCuN

— Chris Combs (iterative design enjoyer) (@DrChrisCombs) January 12, 2023

36 tornadoes were reported in Alabama and Mississippi in late November, killing two persons.