CHINCOTEAGUE, Va.- With Hurricane Florence around the corner, the town of Chincoteague is putting safety first. Chincoteague Emergency Services is getting ready to start evacuating non-residents from the island.
"Starting tomorrow morning at 8 a.m. we'll ask all visitors to return home," said Bryan Rush, emergency services coordinator. "This is in preparation for Hurricane Florence."
The town is gearing up for possible heavy rain and winds, as well as coastal flooding.
"We're waiting and staying alert to make sure overall safety is taking care of," said Chincoteague Police Chief Randy Mills.
In a Facebook post, officials explained that currently only non-residents are being required to leave the island. However, locals should stay alert and plan ahead.
"All non-residents should return to their primary homes beginning at 8 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 12," stated the post. "Local shelters will open at 5 p.m. Wednesday."
The shelters are located at Arcadia High School, 8210 Lankford Hwy., Oak Hall, VA 23416.
"Residents who go to a shelter should bring a picture ID and come prepared to be self-sustaining for three days," explained officials.
They also recommend bringing nonperishable food items, bedding and hygiene items, changes of clothing, quiet items such as books and games.
"Residents should start putting away any loose backyard items such as furniture," explained Rush. "They should get extra cash in case we lose power and filled the gas tank," he added.
Rush also says that in case that any locals decide to leave the island at this time, it's safer to head north.
"Avoid heading west because we're expecting some heavy rain and flooding in the area and you might find yourself in bad a situation," he explained.
Officials recommend keeping an eye on the town's official Facebook page to stay up to date with any further evacuation notices.