MONTGOMERY— Gov. Robert Bentley declared a state of emergency for all Alabama counties as a result of severe weather impacting the state today.

Tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, hail and straight line winds have begun moving into the state, and more severe weather is expected with this weather system later today.

“Our Emergency Management Agency will continue to monitor this severe weather and will be prepared for any potential impact on our communities. I urge Alabamians to do the same and heed weather warnings to protect their families, homes and businesses,” Gov. Robert Bentley said. “The severe weather outbreak two weeks ago is still fresh on our minds and is a reminder that we must take the threat of severe weather seriously.”

By declaring a State of Emergency, Bentley authorizes the Alabama EMA and other state agencies to assist communities make the appropriate assessments of damage.

“The Alabama Emergency Management Agency is working to support the request for the life safety measures in the counties, however it is important for all to be aware of the possibility of another round of severe weather today, including the first responders,” Alabama EMA Director Art Faulkner said.

The State Emergency Operations Center has upgraded its activation level. Additional staff is on hand to monitor the system, as well as monitoring for potential resource requests from Alabama counties.