(MyFoxBoston.com) -- Hurricane Joaquin is causing flooding and damage across the Bahamas, and could be headed to the U.S. this weekend. Here's what you need to know.
>>Powerful storm, could be headed to U.S.
Hurricane Joaquin was a Category 4 storm Thursday afternoon, with maximum sustained winds of 125 mph, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami. The center of the storm was passing over the Bahamas and moving west-southwest at 6 mph.
While Joaquin is crossing over lightly populated areas now, there is concern that Joaquin’s path could place the storm near the U.S. East Coast by this weekend.
>>What areas of the U.S. could be affected?
The Hurricane Center said long-term projections show that the storm could pound the coast of North Carolina by Sunday or Monday. While residents of the Carolinas are particularly encouraged to prepare for the possibility of Joaquin, New Jersey has already declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm. Events scheduled along the East Coast are being canceled or are ending early because of the storm. The area that could be threatened by Joaquin stretches over a 1,000 miles.
>>Isn’t it already raining along the East Coast?
Yes, multiple storm systems have dumped several inches of rain across portions of the East Coast, from the Carolinas to Maine. Heavy rain is expected to continue through the weekend, regardless of Joaquin’s path. According to the National Weather Service, some areas may see up to 10 inches of rain.
>>Preparing for Joaquin
For those on the East Coast, prepare now for the possibility of flooding and evacuations. Have a place to stay inland if necessary. If you plan to stay in your home, take precautions to protect your home from flooding. Make sure to have ample food, drinking water and medications on hand for the entire family. Use a weather radio or other means to stay updated on severe weather in your area.
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