Governor Jay Nixon has declared a state of Emergency in response to flooding in much of the state.

Flooding caused the closure of Interstate 70 in St. Charles County.  This photo was taken on I-70 in the St. Louis area.

Flooding caused the closure of Interstate 70 in St. Charles County. This photo was taken on I-70 in the St. Louis area.

Missouri has been receiving rain fueled by moisture from the Gulf of Mexico and that is expected to continue through Monday, and to cause flooding to worsen. As of 7 Sunday evening the Department of Transportation was reporting more than 430 individual, flood-related road closings throughout Missouri, including I-70 in St. Charles County. At least eight fatalities have been attributed to flooding. Rivers continue to rise and many are expected to reach historic or what the National Weather Service calls “major” flood stages, including the Meramec, the Mississippi, and the Gasconade.

Nixon’s office says the state Highway Patrol has conducted “dozens” of water rescues and helped to evacuate residents from flooded areas. Local officials have been conducting similar operations throughout the state. Nixon urges Missourians to avoid travel if possible and to not drive into water over a roadway.

He also cautions Missourians in northern Missouri to be aware of freezing precipitation as the weather becomes colder.

Nixon says the State Emergency Operations Center is monitoring the system, and the State Emergency Operations Plan has been activated, allowing state agencies to coordinate with local jurisdictions in providing emergency services.

Missourians who need information on disasters, shelter, or referrals are urged to call 211.

Find Missouri road conditions with the Transportation Department’s Traveler Information Map, which is also available as an app on Apple or Android.