Area residents are bracing for high winds and relentless rain from the East Coast storm that could bring flooding and power outages to the area.
On Sunday night, National Weather Service forecaster Kevin Fitzgerald said Hurricane Sandy was making its way up the coast and was expected to take a "left hook" and come ashore this morning.
The storm then is expected to move westward into Pennsylvania.
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Waves crash onto the sea wall protecting homes in Longport, N.J., Sunday, as Hurricane Sandy approaches the area.
"The most serious impacts will be felt today and tonight," he said. "It will be a combination of wind and rain."
Fitzgerald said winds of about 30 mph are expected, with higher gusts of 60 mph possible.
Such winds are not all that unusual, but with accompanying rain and an already saturated ground, it poses the very strong
possibility of downed trees and power lines.
"Any flooding is serious, and that is definitely a possibility," he said. "The power outages are a concern."
Fitzgerald said the worst of the storm likely will be tonight.
The weather service is forecasting up to an inch of rain today, with the evening hours bringing an additional three-quarters of an inch.
However, Tuesday is expected to bring more rain and windy conditions. Additional rain of between 1 and 2 inches is possible.
Fitzgerald estimated between 2 and 5 inches will fall between today and Wednesday.
A flood watch is in effect through Tuesday night.
Lycoming County officials gathered Sunday at the county 911 center to plan for the storm.
"Our main focus seems to be the winds," said Commissioner Jeff Wheeland.
The emergency center will be heavily manned beginning at 9 a.m. today in preparation for the storm.
Wheeland said right now everyone is at the mercy of the storm.
"We prepare for the worst and hope for the best," he said.
Fitzgerald urged area residents to gear up for the storm and potential power outages by stocking up on supplies of water for drinking and cooking.
People should have on hand flashlights with extra batteries, a first aid kit and other needed supplies.
Showers are likely through Wednesday.
Otherwise, it will be mostly cloudy through mid-week with highs in the upper 40s Wednesday and Thursday.
There's a 40-percent chance of showers Thursday.
Friday will be mostly cloudy with a high near 50 degrees, and Saturday is expected to be mostly sunny with a high of 53.
