Hurricane Irene Closes in on the East Coast

The National Weather Service (NWS) gives Prince George's County and the area a 59 percent chance for tropical storm conditions, and forecasts that Irene will move up the coast today and Saturday and will move north of our area on Sunday. Gusty winds are predicted to continue through the day on Sunday.

The worst conditions in our area are predicted during the period from late Saturday through early Sunday. But NWS warns the onset of storm conditions could start as early as Saturday morning. Maximum winds are forecast to be in the 30 to 40 mph range with gusts up to 50 mph.

Move loose items indoors, such as garbage cans and outdoor furniture, NWS advises and also warns of the possibility of isolated power outages.

A flash flood watch is also in effect from Saturday afternoon through Sunday morning. Heavy rains are expected to bring a total storm rainfall of 3 to 6 inches, according to the NWS.