Camp Springs, Md. (AP) Heavy rain is drenching the mid-Atlantic region, knocking out power to tens of thousands of customers and chasing people out of their homes.

Authorities in northern Virginia say a basement wall of a home collapsed after being weakened by water, and crews are working to stabilize the home. Along the Delaware coast, residents of several communities had to leave their homes because of flooding.

Numerous roads have been closed because of high water and firefighters have reported calls from stranded motorists and some boaters who had to be rescued. A coast guard helicopter crew rescued two men this morning from a private research ship that was
Breaking up and taking on water about 14 miles off the Delaware coast.

Up to 5 inches of rain has fallen across the region from since yesterday afternoon. Another half-inch is possible in some areas.

Strong winds and saturated soil brought down trees and cut power to homes and businesses throughout the region.