RICHMOND, Va. -- On Brown's Island, crews are setting up massive tents, stages and booths for food and drinks as they prepare for the annual Richmond Folk festival.
While preparations are underway for the mega-event, organizers are also keeping a close eye to the sky for Hurricane Matthew.
So far, the show will go on as planned this weekend.
Across the river, at the Virginia's Emergency Operations center in Chesterfield, state officials are monitoring the developments of Hurricane Matthew.
If it hits Virginia, the storm could cause massive power outages, downed trees, and local flooding in some areas.
Dawn Brantley with the department of Emergency Management tells CBS 6, state officials are bracing for any potential impact of the storm.
"We will move into a partial activation on Thursday as anticipated right now. Of course, if the storm track speeds up we will accelerate that,” said Brantley. “By Friday evening, we anticipate being fully staffed 24 hours a day for the duration of the event."
Brantley advises residents to have a communications plan in place now so you know who to contact in the event that you have to evacuate.
"Follow local official recommendations. Always know what your evacuation routes are in case you have to evacuate. Make sure you have supplies on hand for five to seven days particularly if you're planning to stay in place," she said.
Brantley says those supplies should include prescribed medications, canned foods, water, extra batteries and an emergency supply kit.
She says the Governor could declare a State of Emergency depending on the storm's path and aftermath in Central Virginia.
The City or Richmond encourages residents to bring in or secure any objects that may be blown about by high winds, including plants, patio furniture, garden décor, etc.
Businesses also have a critical role in emergency preparedness. Putting a disaster plan in motion now will improve the likelihood that your business or company will survive and recover. Click here for more information.
