BREAKING: Hurricane Joaquin Now a Category Two Storm; Malloy Urges Preparedness

Hurricane Joaquin reached category two status Wednesday night and may develop into a category three storm later in the week.

NBC Connecticut Meteorologist Tyler Jankoski said he anticipates Joaquin making landfall early next week, between North and South Carolina and New Jersey.

The National Weather Service hasn’t made a prediction as of yet on whether the storm will have a direct impact on Connecticut.

According to the latest NWS update for southern Connecticut, “additional rounds of heavy rain are possible late this week through the weekend, which could bring flooding concerns.”

For southern Fairfield and southern New Haven counties a coastal flood advisory is in effect from 6 a.m. until 6 a.m. Friday, while a coastal flood watch is in effect from Friday morning through Friday afternoon, according to the NWS.

But for northern Connecticut, currently, there is only a 40-percent chance of rain and showers this weekend.

‘High Tides Along the Shoreline’

Meteorologist Gil Simmons said everyone needs to watch the forecast but as of Wednesday night, it looks like a major concern for North Carolina and Virginia.

“The left-hand turn is looking earlier so more of a concern down there but we all need to watch it,” he said. “Higher confidence in this scenario likely tomorrow [Thursday]. Sleep tight and be ready for a cool couple of days ahead. Also high tides are going to run high along our local shoreline through end of the week.”

Simmons reminded residents to dress warmly, as there will be a fall chill in the air.

‘Low Impact for Connecticut’

Meteorologist Ryan Hanrahan said while the computer models are in agreement that the east coast is in trouble, he believes the impact in Connecticut will be low.

“This could change, however, so it’s important to stay tuned to future forecast updates,” he said.

State of CT is Preparing for Joaquin

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy advised Connecticut residents to closely follow weather reports and prepare for the possibility of its arrival in the region over the next five days.

“We are monitoring the storm closely, and our state emergency management officials have been in regular contact with the National Weather Service,” he said. “While there are many variables with this storm, we are paying close attention to its track. Just as the state and its agencies are monitoring the weather and preparing appropriately, residents should do the same and closely watch forecasts over the next few days.”

Photo: Accuweather.com