'Irene' to Bring Tropical Storm Wind and Rain to the Two Towns

Hamilton and Wenham are under a tropical storm warning for Sunday, meaning winds are expected to blow 45 miles per hour or stronger when Hurricane Irene arrives.

The National Weather Service said at 12:18 a.m. on Saturday that the tropical storm warning was being issued so that residents could take precautionary and preparedness action on Saturday.

“Final preparations to protect life and property should be completed before conditions deteriorate,” the weather service said. “The onset of gusty winds and heavy rains can cause outside activities to become dangerous; Secure loose outdoor objects which can be blown around.”

The exact impact of the storm remains undetermined as of midnight on Friday night. The weather service said that the size, intensity, track and timing of Hurricane Irene was still yet to be exactly pinpointed and would influence the storm’s impact on the two towns.

What is clear that there will be a notable impact and the first effects will be felt on Saturday night.

“These wind speeds will likely produce widespread damage with downed trees and power outages,” the weather service said.

A flood watch has been issued for Hamilton and Wenham too and as much as five to 10 inches of rain is expected to fall, although the heaviest rain is expected far west of Hamilton and Wenham, along the eastern slopes of the Berkshires.

Locally, officials in both towns said they . If needed, a shelter will be set up at in Wenham and the in Hamilton. Crews were also making sure that all the chainsaws and generators were in working order and extra staff could be called in, if necessary.