Ocean City Preparing For Tropical Storm Hermine

OCEAN CITY, Md. (WJZ) -- As Tropical Storm Hermine churns up the East Coast, Ocean City is preparing for potential problems.

"Things could change in the next 24 hours," said Joseph Theobald, Ocean City's Emergency Services Director.

Officials are keeping an eye on Tropical Storm Hermine, as the threat of dangerous conditions creeps up the coast.

"It's predicted to stall off the coast. And if it stays here for a couple of days, that increases our vulnerability to increase surge problems along not just the oceanfront, but the bayside as well," said Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan.

Hermine is expected to dump several inches of rain, bring heavy wind and create hazardous conditions on the water and could cause Ocean City to close off the beach and boardwalk.

"We have to ramp some things up. We want to protect the public. That's most important," said Theobald.

RELATED: Gov. Hogan Declares State of Emergency For Eastern Shore, Southern Md.

Instead of celebrating this Labor Day weekend, beachgoers and business owners in Ocean City are now preparing for the worst.

"Stainless steel doors pulled down," said Les Morris, general manager, Thrasher's French Fries. "But we have sandbags we put around the doors just in case the water gets high."

Like many businesses on the boardwalk, Thrasher's is ready when intense weather barrels through.

"Follow the city protocol. They're very good at their job, and they won't steer you wrong," said Morris.

Travelers understand their vacations may be cut short.

"I'm going to pay close attention to the weather, and then take it from there," said Donald Hairston.

Ocean City's mayor is warning people before they head to the Eastern Shore this weekend.

"I want everybody to be safe. If you are concerned about traveling -- don't," Meehan said.

RELATED: Tropical Storm Hermine Moving North; Warnings For Parts of Md.