Hurricane Irene's Land Fall Pushed to Sunday

Hurricane Irene's scheduled arrival has been pushed to Sunday, instead of late Saturday.

The National Weather Service currently predicts that the center of Irene will approach Maryland on Sunday, with wind gusts between 74 and 110 miles per hour.

Hurricane Irene is currently off the the southern tip of Florida in the Atlantic Ocean, but is expected to travel up the East Coast as far north as New England, bringing with her hurricane force winds, extreme rainfall, significant coastal flooding and a tornado threat, according to The Weather Channel.

Heavy rain could track as far west as western Virginia, western Maryland, central Pennsylvania and central and western New York.

Today's Forecast

In Silver Spring, thunderstorms are expected in the area mainly after 3 p.m. The National Weather Service predicts gusty winds, heavy rain, and hail. Into the evening, the thunderstorms may continue.

The Department of Homeland Security's FEMA suggests the following when preparing for a hurricane:

• Make plans to secure your property. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8-inch marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.
• Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will reduce roof damage.
• Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed.
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
• Determine how and where to secure your boat.
• Consider building a safe room.

Protect Your Property from Flooding

• Build With Flood Damage Resistant Materials
• Raise Electrical System Components
• Anchor Fuel Tanks
• Install Sewer Backflow Valves

Protect Your Property from High Winds

• Maintain EIFS Walls
• Protect Windows and Doors with Covers
• Reinforce or Replace Garage Doors
• Remove Trees and Potential Windborne Missiles
• Secure Metal Siding and Metal Roofs
• Secure Built-Up and Single-Ply Roofs
• Secure Composition Shingle Roofs
• Brace Gable End Roof Framing