Updated

Missouri's governor has declared a state of emergency because of widespread flooding that has led to at least eight fatalities.

Gov. Jay Nixon's office said in a release Sunday that weekend flooding has led to eight deaths, dozens of water rescues and evacuations. More flooding is expected while river levels continue rising around the state.

Several roadways have also been closed because of flooding, including a section of Interstate 70 outside St. Louis.

Nixon says the state's emergency plan has been activated, allowing state agencies to coordinate with local authorities to provide emergency services.

In Pulaski County, authorities said six people died after vehicles they were in were swept away by floodwaters. Greene County authorities also said two fatalities there were associated with the recent flooding.