Gov. Ned Lamont declared a state of emergency Monday afternoon in response to the significant flooding over the weekend.

State officials say the historic and severe rainfall began Sunday and has caused extensive structural damage to roadways. Multiple towns reported water rescues and injuries, including two women found dead in Oxford.

“This emergency declaration may help expedite some of the resources needed for us to respond to this situation, and in particular can help prioritize potential federal resources such as equipment and work crews that can assist state and local crews with repairing infrastructure damage,” said Lamont.

The Connecticut Emergency Operations Center says it will continue to monitor conditions.

Officials reiterated that residents should avoid closed roads and turn around if they encounter flooded streets.