UPDATE, Oct. 28, 4:50pm: Governor asks all public schools in state to close.
The Steamship Authority , the lifeline to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, also weighed in that they would be keeping boats on a trip-by-trip basis throughout the day on Sunday and cancelling all boats on Monday. The M/V Eagle, M/V Gay Head and M/V Iyanough are expected to tie up later today in Hyannis.
Check the Steamship Authority for more information.
The forecast is calling for Sandy to hit the Cape and Islands at approximately 2 am Monday morning and the Cape will see sustained winds at 30 – 40 mph for 12-18 hours with gusts between 60 mph and 80 mph.
Coastal flooding is expected – especially along the south and east coasts. Severe beach erosion is also likely and may drastically affect the coastline. There will be three high tide cycles to watch – and surges are expected to be three to four feet.
MEMA also predicted that barrier beaches on the Islands would breach.
Three Red Cross Shelters on Cape Cod will open at 8 am tomorrow.
Downed trees and widespread power outages are expected. Currently, there are no road-closings, but residents are advised to shelter at home.
Those living in low-lying areas may wish to evacuate, but should do so before this evening as the storm will arrive in the middle of the night and after that point everyone is advised to stay off the roads.
Governor Deval Patrick declared a state of emergency yesterday and will hold an additional press conference at 4:30 pm Sunday afternoon.
We will continue to update you as information becomes available.