Associated Press - November 12, 2009 3:15 PM ET

NORFOLK, Va. (AP) - Military bases in southeast Virginia have scaled back their operations during the rains and widespread flooding in the area, asking most of their employees to stay home for their safety.

Navy officials on Thursday had only what they call essential personnel reporting to work at the Norfolk Naval Station, Oceana Naval Air Station and all other Navy installations in Hampton Roads, according to a spokeswoman.

The Army's Fort Eustis in Newport News and the Langley Air Force Base in Hampton are following similar plans through Friday, according to officials at both bases.

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