Latest news, weather and high school sports for Albany and Southwest Georgia

Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue is asking President Obama for an emergency federal disaster declaration to help homeowners struggling with flooded property after this week's epic deluge.

The governor said he hopes for a decision by the end of Tuesday and is expecting "some level of federal reimbursement" as the cash-strapped state grapples with the emergency.  He said the state "will do everything in its power, both physically and fiscally" to help flood victims.

Perdue also urged residents to stay away from the flooded west Georgia areas, and told residents to resist the temptation to
return to their neighborhoods.  He said "I know stuff is important - but it's not nearly as important as your life.  Give these waters time to recede."