PORTSMOUTH (AP) -- The U.S. Coast Guard is urging people along the East Coast of Va. and NC to prepare for Hurricane Earl's arrival later this week.
The Coast Guard set port condition Whiskey for Hampton Roads and Wilmington and Morehead City, NC. The status means the agency will identify and track all vessels in port, establish contact with emergency officials and prepare for the storm.
The agency cautioned boaters to anticipate bridge closures and to stay off the water because rescue capabilities are degraded as storm conditions strengthen.
It also urged residents to secure their belongings. It says owners of larger boats should move their boats to inland marinas where they will be more secure.
Swimmers also are urged to stay clear of beaches until local officials say the water is safe.
Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning, a Coast Guard C-130 from Air Station Elizabeth City will be making flights along the coast broadcasting warnings to mariners about conditions that were expected to worsen in the coming days.
