City, Residents Prepare for Hurricane Irene

With Hurricane Irene still traveling up the eastern coast and expected to hit the area on Sunday, the city of Marlborough seems to be going about its business as usual, with a few notable exceptions. 

The city's website has a resource guide on their home page that includes a link to an emergency preparedness video on WMCT. 

Starting Monday, the city's trash and recycling pick-up will have altered service for the remainder of the week and run according to the holiday schedule. That means those scheduled for pick-up on Monday, will be serviced on Tuesday and so on. 

As of midday Friday, Hannaford was running low on bottled water supplies, but the rest of the store seemed well-stocked. The shelves were full Price Chopper with no inventory issues that we could see. 

The and deparments have been contacted about their plans and recommendations during the upcoming severe weather, but have not yet responded with statements. 

The National Weather Service issued a tropical storm watch for Middlesex County, which includes Marlborough. While the path and the effects of the storm are still largely unknown, officials urge the public to be prepared. 

"For those under a watch, now is the time to begin preparing your home or business according to your hurricane disaster plan," said a release. "Listen for possible warnings and be ready to evacuate if necessary. Heed the advice of local officials and comply with any orders that are issued."

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick declared a state of emergency as Irene continues its path along the eastern seaboard. National Guardsmen were activated.

The , headquartered in Framingham has asked residents to be prepared.

Check back with Marlborough Patch shortly to see the emergency preparedness plan Mayor Nancy Stevens office has put together. 

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