Newark Mayor Cory Booker Urges Residents To Be Storm-Prepared
NEWARK, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Preparations are under way in Newark for Hurricane Irene.
The National Weather Service has issued a hurricane warning for parts of New Jersey as Hurricane Irene makes its way towards the Tri-State area.
Photos: The 11 Worst Hurricanes, 2000-2011 | Hurricane Irene, So Far
Newark Mayor Cory Booker is urging residents, especially in flood-prone, low-lying areas of the city, to prepare for a worst-case scenario of high winds, flooding and possible power outages.
Booker says that means having enough food, water and medication to last for three days without power if necessary.
Newark's police department will have all staff on duty and in uniform to assist with any needed evacuations or emergency response. City call centers and 911 lines are also increasing staffing.
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Shelters for city residents will be opening at 6 p.m. Saturday and homeless shelters are currently open. Booker said the shelters are fully stocked with food, cots and generators.
"They will be as comfortable as we can make them," Booker said.
More: Track Irene's Path | Hurricane Resources | NYC Evac Zone Finder | Prepare For The Storm
Gov. Chris Christie is warning residents and tourists across all of New Jersey to listen to warnings and evacuation orders for Hurricane Irene.
"This is not like anything you've seen before," Christie said Friday.
Starting at 8 p.m. Friday, Christie said the Garden State Parkway will be closed southbound of exit 98. Traffic will be diverted to I-95.
New Jersey Transit trains will also stop running at noon Saturday because of the storm.
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