Federal Emergency Management Agency officials are keeping a close eye on the eastern seaboard as it braces for the pending arrival of Tropical Storm Arthur.
Emergency crews have been dispatched to North and South Carolina and officials are keeping an eye on Florida as Arthur churns off its eastern coast. The system, currently classified as a tropical storm with winds of at least 39 MPH, is expected to become a hurricane by Friday.
FEMA says the storm, the first of the Atlantic hurricane season, should serve as a reminder to residents of the eastern seaboard to stay prepared and refresh on emergency planning strategies. The Agency is urging residents of potentially affected areas to familiarize themselves with evacuation routes and emergency procedures in the event of severe weather.
Tropical storm warnings and watches are currently in effect along both the North Carolina and South Carolina coasts. Forecasters expect conditions to intensify throughout the week.
Ali Watkins McClatchy Washington Bureau