Flash floods hit the Midwest, several reported dead

Heavy rainfall prompts flash flood warnings in several Midwestern states.

A church and homes are seen in the Mississippi River floodwaters on May 23, 2011 in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Heavy rains left the ground saturated, rivers swollen, and caused widespread flooding in Louisiana. Mississippi, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Arkansas.

Mario Tama

Several people have died in flooding in Missouri, authorities said Thursday, as heavy rainfall continues to lash the Midwest. 

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon announced a state of emergency on Tuesday and visited flood-struck areas on Thursday, reported the local ABC affiliate.

Missouri received 10 inches of rain overnight Wednesday, according to the Associated Press, with at least two people dead in weather-related incidents.

ABC said three people have so far been killed throughout the state. 

Flash flood warnings have also been also issued in Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Tennessee, said the AP. 

"We are still in this thing," Nixon said on Thursday, according to ABC. "We are watching weather patterns to see where it moves next. It's not over yet, but we are here until it's over."

More rain is expected over the weekend, said the AP.