Long Branch OEM on Hurricane Irene: 'We Are Taking This Very Seriously'

Forecasters are predicting that , and the Long Branch Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is taking necessary precautions.

Long Branch OEM Coordinator Stanley Dzuiba said there will be a public safety meeting today between the OEM, police, fire, first aid and other services to discuss the hurricane.

"We are taking this very seriously, as it has the potential to be devastating," Dzuiba said.

Dzuiba said he will receive an update on the hurricane's path later this afternoon and will use that to help plan what course of action the city will take.

He said the city has already removed "everything" from the beaches including lifeguard stands.

"We have people out checking storm drains and creeks to make sure there is no blockage," Dzuiba said.

The storms that hit the area the last two weekends caused  and it could be much worse if the hurricane continues on its current path.

"There is going to be a new moon on Monday which could cause very high tides and there could be bad flooding," Dzuiba said.

Dzuiba said all residents should have an emergency evacuation plan with their family members.

For the city's emergency information, including messages from the Red Cross and FEMA click here.

Dzuiba said the city will issue a Code Red alert on Wednesday afternoon for all residents concerning the hurricane.

This story will be updated later today after the city holds its public safety meeting. Stay tuned to Long Branch Patch for more updates on Hurricane Irene.