Carcieri declares State of Emergency

CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) - Governor Donald Carcieri declared a state of emergency on Monday, to aid the areas of the state most affected by the storm.

The declaration could help the state get federal money to help absorb some flood-related expenses.

On Perkins Avenue in Cranston, dramatic water rescues played out over and over again on Monday.

On Elmwood Avenue, the Pawtuxet River reached record levels, creeping closer and closer to the bridge.

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In West Warwick, several homes were evacuated, because of rising waters from the Pawtuxet River.

Police said flooding had forced evacuations on Providence Street, River Street, Begonia Street, Industrial Lane, and East Street. The East Street Bridge between Warwick and West Warwick is also closed.

"This storm is significantly affecting many communities, businesses and families throughout Rhode Island, particularly in Kent County and the Blackstone Valley region," Governor Carcieri said.

"Over the weekend and throughout the day, state and local officials have monitored and responded to the situation. I would like to commend the efforts of the Emergency Management Agency, as well as the efforts or the local emergency management officials, DEM, DOT, the RI State Police, and local police and fire, for the coordinated and consistent response to the storm."