Preparing for the Hurricane in Andover

Andover officials are all on alert for the coming Hurricane Irene this weekend. With recent forecasts downgrading the Hurricane's category, safety officials are prepared but are expecting a heavy rain.

The National Weather Service on Friday issued hurricane watches and warnings for the entire east coast, including a hurricane watch for coastal Massachusetts. Andover was under tropical storm watch but is close to the hurricane line, due to its proximity to the North Shore.

Police said that tree warden Randy Pickersgill and his staff will be one group that will most certainly be busy on Sunday. With the rain and high winds expected regardless of the Hurricane's category, public safety officials are definitely expecting down trees, blocking roadways and creating hazards.

The Department of Public Works department is also prepared for the worst but still feel that heavy rain will be their biggest bane.

One of the main preparations for the DPW is cleaning out catch basins throughout town in order to reduce the likelihood of flooding in certain areas. 

The Town of Andover posted this information on the town website this morning.

The National Weather Service has issued a Hurricane Watch for all Coastal Communities in the following Counties in Massachusetts; Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Plymouth, Bristol, Barnstable, Dukes, and Nantucket.

Below are some tips to help you get prepared and keep your family safe this weekend:

• Tips to prepare and protect your home or your business during a hurricane. 
• Restock your family's supply kit and reach out to your friends and neighbors who may need additional help during this time. 
• What to do if you lose power during the storm. 
• If you need non emergency assistance, please call 2-1-1.
• Safety information for your family and pets in the case you are asked to evacuate.