Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) students should expect inclement weather conditions from the onslaught of Hurricane Sandy from Sunday night through Monday in the Richmond area, according to the National Weather Service. Students can prepare for power outages by loading up on nonperishable foods, water bottles, flashlights and batteries. Students should also anticipate the drop of trees due to severe winds and rainfall. The Richmond area could get 4 to 5 inches of rain and gusts up to 50 mph.
So far, Hurricane Sandy has killed more than 50 people in the Caribbean.
Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones declared a state of emergency on Saturday for the city. Dominion Virginia Power is advising its customers to prepare for multiday power outages and has thousands of workers on standby to assist in restoring power.
To date, VCU has not cancelled classes. Nonetheless, it is advised that Richmond residents evacuate the area (if possible).
Satellite view of the enormous cloud field associated with Hurricane Sandy. (NASA)
Hurricane Sandy’s projected path. (The Weather Channel)