4 things to know about Hurricane Joaquin

Hurricane Joaquin was a Category 4 storm Friday morning, with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami. The center of the storm was passing over the Bahamas and moving north at 3 mph.

Once it departs the Bahamas, Joaquin’s path is expected to take a course that will keep it in the ocean, away from the U.S. East Coast.

>>What areas of the U.S. could be affected?

At this time, gale warnings and coastal flooding are concerns for East Coast states.

>>Isn’t it already raining along the East Coast?

Yes, multiple storm systems have dumped several inches of rain across portions of the East Coast, from the Carolinas to Maine. Heavy rain is expected to continue through the weekend, regardless of Joaquin’s path. According to the National Weather Service, some areas may see up to 10 inches of rain.

>>Preparing for Joaquin

For those on the East Coast, prepare now for the possibility of flooding and evacuations. Have a place to stay inland if necessary. If you plan to stay in your home, take precautions to protect your home from flooding. Make sure to have ample food, drinking water and medications on hand for the entire family. Use a weather radio or other means to stay updated on severe weather in your area.