Massive floods pound Atlanta, Georgia and the surrounding area -- leaving nine people dead throughout the state.

It's known by many as the capital of the U.S. south -- but after days of heavy rain, much of Atlanta, Georgia and the surrounding area is under water -- leaving nine people dead throughout the state.

Over a foot of rain has flooded neighborhoods and schools, leaving a major highway closed. Even the "Scream Machine" -- a popular roller coaster at the Six Flags amusement park -- has been silenced by water.

The good news -- flood waters have receded and many are able to return to their homes.

The bad news: (NATSOT) FLOOD VICTIM, SAYING "Everything we worked for is gone." -- Many are finding little left.

With overall damage estimates from the flood at around $250 million -- many homeowners are anxiously waiting for President Obama to declare a State of Emergency for Georgia -- to allow access to federal funds.

Jon Decker, Reuters.