At least seven people are dead after tornadoes tore a path through central and eastern Alabama Thursday.

The deaths occurred in Autauga County in the Old Kingston area. Another 12 people were taken to a hospital to be treated for injuries. Selma in Dallas County also experienced widespread damage, as did places in Sumter, Greene, Hale and Winston counties.

Other areas that have reported storm damage are in Morgan, Tuscaloosa, Perry, Bibb, Elmore, Coosa, Tallapoosa, Chambers and Barbour counties.

The National Weather Service will be conducting surveys today. So far, only one tornado has been confirmed, an EF-1 with top winds of 104 mph that crossed through parts of Lawrence, Morgan and Limestone counties.

How you can help

There are a number of ways to help the Alabama tornado victims. Before making a donation, check out this guidance from the Better Business Bureau on the best ways to safely give after a disaster.

Black Belt Community Foundation

Black Belt Community Foundation collecting monetary donations to assist storm victims. You can donate here.

Central Alabama Community Foundation

The Central Alabama Community Foundation has been set up to assist those impacted by the recent storms and tornado. Funds can be donated here.

Red Cross

Local Red Cross disaster responders are working with local officials to identify community needs in the areas hardest hit by the tornadoes, including opening a shelter in Selma. Those who have been directly impacted by the storms and are in need of assistance should call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit redcross.org/gethelp

To reach out for free 24/7 counseling or support, contact the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs’ to 66746.

Red Cross is seeking cash donations to help with recovery efforts. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800 RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation donate online at www.redcross.org. Individuals can also sign up to become a volunteer.

United Way of Central Alabama

United Way of Central Alabama, in partnership with United Way of Selma in Dallas County, has launched a donation site that will serve tornado victims. To donate to disaster relief efforts, visit www.uwca.org/Selma Selma Tornado Relief – United Way of Central Alabama (uwca.org) or text SELMA to 62644.

READ MORE:

At least 7 now dead in Autauga County after storms, tornado strike Alabama

How many tornadoes hit Alabama on Thursday? NWS to continue damage surveys

Selma begins digging out from devastating storm: ‘It’s just like a bomb had blown up’