The National Weather Service (NWS) in Gray, Maine, has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for coastal Rockingham County. New Hampshire Department of Safety’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) urges residents and visitors in the Granite State to be prepared for Hurricane Lee, which is expected to arrive in the Gulf of Maine on Friday.

A Tropical Storm Watch means there is the potential for wind 39 to 57 mph in the watch area. Hurricane Lee’s impacts are expected to be strongest on the Seacoast. However, the NWS said all of New Hampshire has the potential to be affected by strong winds. HSEM, in coordination with other state, local, and federal partners, is closely monitoring the storm.

“Residents and visitors should take time to prepare now for strong winds and power outages,” said state HSEM Director Robert Buxton. “Pay attention to local weather alerts and make sure everyone in your family knows your emergency plan and their roles. Check your emergency kit to ensure you have enough items for at least 72 hours. Secure any items outside your home, especially on the Seacoast.”

The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) plans to activate at Enhanced Monitoring at 8 a.m. Friday to monitor the storm and support local communities