Torrential rains caused “potentially life-threatening” flooding in the northeastern US state of New York on Sunday, turning roads into rivers, sweeping away bridges and prompting the governor to declare a county state of emergency.

A woman died trying to get out of her home with her dog in the Hudson Valley when she was swept away by flash flood waters, media reported.

Gov. Kathy Hokul declared a state of emergency for Orange County, northwest of New York City, and Ontario County, in the central part of the state, noting that up to 200 millimeters of rain created “life-threatening conditions due to sudden of floods”.

“We are approaching a critical point in this weather event,” Hokul added.

Last night more than 12,000 people were without power, her office said, as water from the torrential rain washed away roads and trapped people in their cars or homes.

As of 20:00 local time (03:00 Greek time) highways were closed in at least five counties in the state, including Westchester, which is just north of New York and on the banks of the Hudson River.

The governor’s office said the state is expecting more storms today, Monday