VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Virginia Beach city leaders are holding a press conference Wednesday to discuss their preparations ahead of Hurricane Erin's expected brush past the east coast.
WATCH FULL PRESS CONFERENCE: VB officials discuss preparations as Hurricane Erin nears the east coast
During the press conference, Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul Neudigate urged people to not drive through flooded streets, emphasizing the dangers of moving water during storms.
"If you are in an area that may be impacted, please secure valuables, firearms, in case you would need to leave your residence because we may not be able to get there in time to protect property while we're dealing with life preservation," Neudigate said.
Virginia Beach EMS Division Chief Bruce Nedelka said they will be anticipating power outages as a result of Hurricane Erin's brush past the east coast. He encouraged residents to take preemptive action — specifically, those reliant on medication or oxygen tanks.
Despite forecasts expecting the storm's center to remain over water, concerns regarding high winds and coastal flooding remain.
Erin is a large hurricane and growing. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 90 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 265 miles.
Watch related coverage: Updates on Hurricane Erin's location, wind speeds, possible impact to the east coast
The city is opening four Town Center garages for those who want to move their vehicles to higher ground.
Spots in the following garages — aside from spaces marked as reserved — will be open from Wednesday afternoon through Friday:
- Maroon garage (Apex Entertainment VB)
- Red garage (Westin Hotel)
- Green garage (Armada Hoffler Tower)
- Orange garage (Clark Nexsen Tower)
Weather
Live blog: Hurricane Erin pulls away, tidal flooding, rough surf remain
The Emergency Management Services District reminds neighbors in Virginia Beach to stay up-to-date on any potential evacuations by clicking here or texting VBALERT to 67283.
