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With uncertain track of Hurricane Matthew, preparations are already underway

Posted at 10:56 AM, Oct 03, 2016
and last updated 2016-10-03 22:02:05-04

NORFOLK, Va. - An uncertain track of Hurricane Matthew has folks in Hampton Roads and North Carolina thinking ahead in case the storm impacts this area.

According to the Norfolk Emergency Operations Center, they've increased the Norfolk EOC Readiness Condition to Condition 4, which means a tropical system has developed with the potential to impact the area within 144-96 hours.

With that readiness condition, emergency officials are reviewing and implementing playbooks and checklists and identifying materials and resources that may be necessary.

Public Works in Norfolk will also be checking equipment this week and clearing storm drains, particularly in areas prone to issues.

On the Outer Banks, Dare County Emergency Management Officials have been urging people to keep ahead of the storm and prepare now as well, should it impact the area.

That includes thinking about where to go should an evacuation order be issued, according to Dare County Emergency Management Director Drew Pearson.

In Virginia Beach, Erin Sutton with Emergency Management has been providing updates to city staff since Sunday. Right now the city is in the monitoring stage with Hurricane Matthew.

Virginia Beach Public Works crews are monitoring the track of the storm as well and will pay special attention to any areas that experienced flooding last month.

Navy officials in Hampton Roads are also keeping a close eye on the track of Hurricane Matthew, making plans if sending ships out to sea or preparing local bases becomes necessary.

Over the weekend, the Navy evacuated about 700 spouses and children from Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba ahead of the storm's expected arrival there.