Arlington County, Va., has declared a local emergency in preparation for Hurricane Irene.
The declaration was made Friday afternoon because of the potential for damaging winds, rainfall and storm surge that could cause flooding and other hazardous conditions in the county.
The declaration provides for increased coordination with state resources, and allows officials to take necessary actions to prepare for and respond to the storm.
Gov. Bob McDonnell declared a state of emergency for Virginia on Thursday.
All Arlington County facilities will close at noon Saturday and will remain closed through Sunday. This includes community centers, libraries, arts centers, and other county buildings. The county plans to reopen for regular business on Monday.
- Watch Live: Hurricane Irene Coverage
- Track the storm with our interactive radar.
- Share your photos with us and other readers.
- Check the latest severe weather alerts.
- Prepare yourself and your home for the hurricane.
- By the numbers: Hurricane Irene.
- Dramatic photos of the hurricane.
- Power outages: Info from your power company.
- Complete weather coverage and News4 video forecasts.
- Hurricanes through history.
Local
Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia local news, events and information
Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. Sign up for our e-mail newsletters and get breaking news delivered right to your mobile phone -- just text DCBREAKING to 622339 to sign up. (Message and data rates may apply.)