Preparing for what Sandy might bring

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - It's what everybody is talking about- Hurricane Sandy- and it is looking more and more likely that it will have an effect on our weather here in western Massachusetts next week.

Last year just before Halloween, we were hit by a devastating snowstorm. It brought down trees and power lines everywhere; causing people to be without power for days and even weeks.

This storm isn't expected to cause the same kind of damage we saw last October, though.

“With a hurricane, it's going to be wind and rain opposed to snow, what will happen is as the winds pick up the leaves get pushed off so it'll be a very different characteristic. We don't expect nearly the amount of damage or devastation,” said Peter Clarke, the President of WMECO.

One of the main concerns for us here in western Massachusetts is for flooding. We all remember what an effect Tropical Storm Irene had on us last year.

One important thing you should do is clear the leaves from the storm drains in front of your house.
This could help to prevent some street flooding.

Fortunately, the rivers are not running all that high so they'll be able to handle some of the rain and runoff a little bit better, and if they do flood, they should recede fairly quickly.

Strong gusty winds could cause power outages, so have flashlights and batteries handy. And bring in your garbage cans and lawn furniture so they don't get blown around.

The Pioneer Valley Red Cross is already starting to prepare.

“We are calling down our list of volunteers to see who's available in the event that the storm does hit we are working with our sister chapters to make sure we have the right supplies and help if needed,” said Dawn Leaks of the Pioneer Valley Red Cross.

People are paying attention to what hurricane Sandy is doing.

“If it looks like it's going to be bad we'll get ready,” said Richard Mastronarda of Chicopee.

“Well after our last incident, uhm I kinda thought in the back of my head I probably should be getting some water, batteries just to kind of stay ahead of it,” Ellen Castor of West Springfield.

It's still early but you'll want to pay close attention to the forecast and track of Sandy over the next couple of days.