Lower Cape Makes Ready For Heavy Weather

CHATHAM -- Preparations are underway ahead of an unusual early-season coastal storm that's expected to bring high winds, coastal flooding and possible power outages to the region over the next few days.

The National Weather Service is predicting winds gusting to 45mph or higher, with coastal flooding and erosion likely on northeast- and east-facing shorelines. Locally, the greatest impacts are expected on Nauset Beach, in Pleasant Bay and Chatham Harbor.



In addition to causing street flooding, heavy rains could also overwhelm boats' bilge pumps, Chatham Harbormaster Jason Holm warned. He urged boat owners to prepare their vessels for heavy weather, and to remove dinghies along the shoreline.

Officials say there is also a possibility of power outages, since trees remain fully leafed-out, leaving branches vulnerable to wind damage.

Watch this space for storm updates and cancellations.