Deal extends state of emergency for 15 counties

Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal has extended until Wednesday the state of emergency declaration for 15 counties where severe storm damage requires ongoing response efforts.

The declaration includes the following counties: Baldwin, Burke, Butts, Columbia, Emanuel, Hancock, Jasper, Jefferson, Jones, Johnson, Pike, Richmond, Screven, Taliaferro and Washington.

Local emergency management officials in Richmond County have reported to GEMA at least 200 homes that have suffered storm-related structural damage, primarily caused by falling trees. The governor has requested that FEMA conduct individual assessments in this region, beginning in the hardest hit areas. Federal officials could begin inspections as early as next week.