Tropical Storm Warning Remains in Effect

The National Weather Service in Mount Holly, NJ issued a and a tropical storm warning remains in effect today.

Aa Hurricane Irene approaches, sustained tropical storm force winds are expected to begin late Saturday evening. Maximum winds are forecast to be in the 35 to 45 mph range with gusts to 65 mph.

According to the weather service's alert, minor to moderate damage in likely to many mobile homes, especially those that have canopies, awnings or carports. Poorly constructed homes may sustain minor wall damage and partial roof removal. Other homes may have minor roof and siding damage. Some loose outdoor items will be tossed around and may cause additional damage. Some power lines will be knocked down resulting in power outages. Some large branches of healthy trees will be snapped. Most or newly planted trees and shrubs will be damaged or uprooted.

The chance for hurricane conditions at this time is very small. The chance for tropical storm conditions at this time is upt o 70 percent. This represents a general steady trend since the last forecast. The onset of tropical storm conditions could start as early as Saturday morning.

In addition to a tropical storm warning, the for the entire area. Heavy and possibly record setting rainfall amounts Saturday and Sunday may result in major flooding across the area.