Tropical Storm Watch Issued For Metro Region

The entire Metropolitan Washington region is now under a tropical storm watch, according to the National Weather Service.

A 5p.m. update from the National Hurricane Center showed Hurricane Irene heading close enough to Washington, D.C. to cause tropical storm force wind gusts of 30-60 miles per hour, according to NWS.

Significant rainfall and wind gusts could start on Saturday afternoon and continue into Sunday, according to NWS.

Pepco is preparing for the possibility of a “widespread, multi-day restoration effort,” according to a statement. Residents, especially those who need power for criticalmedical equipment, are urged to plan ahead, review emergency plans and prepare for the possibility of extended power outages.