Rain, floods prompt state of emergency in Missouri

ST. LOUIS (AP) - Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon on Thursday declared a state of emergency as heavy rain continues to cause flash flooding and flooding across the state.

Many parts of Missouri have seen several inches of rain over the past week, and remnants of tropical depression Bill are bringing even more through Friday night.

Nixon has activated the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan, which helps state agencies coordinate more directly with local jurisdictions on emergency services.

"With more heavy rain in the forecast, we will continue to remain in direct contact with law enforcement and local officials as we work to protect lives and property," Nixon said in a statement.

The Missouri River crested at several spots on Thursday, including Hermann in eastern Missouri. The river was 8 feet above flood stage in the historic German community, swamping ag land and low-lying fields in and near town.

The Mississippi River was still on the rise, and expected to reach major flood stage from Ste. Genevieve south through Cape Girardeau.

The National Weather Service said the river was projected to reach 41.9 feet on Monday near Ste. Genevieve, nearly 15 feet above flood stage. That would be the fifth-worst flood ever, flooding railroad tracks and shutting down several roadways.

The flood could damage a few homes south of Cape Girardeau. Buyouts since the 1993 flood have removed most homes in the Mississippi River flood plain from harm's way.

Smaller rivers are also expected to reach major flood stage, including the Meramec, Bourbeuse and Cuivre rivers.

The Missouri Department of Transportation lists 24 locations across the state where roads are closed due to flooding. Nixon and Missouri State Highway Patrol officials urge motorists to avoid driving through water on roadways. A man died this week near Sullivan after his vehicle was pushed off the road by moving water and overturned.