City leaders say they are preparing for similar impacts that came during Hurricane Erin's close approach to the coast last month.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Parts of Hampton Roads could see moderate to severe coastal impacts from two tropical systems, Tropical Storm Imelda and Hurricane Humberto, traveling off the East Coast.
Even though experts say direct landfall of the two tropical storm systems are unlikely, coastlines all the way up to Virginia could be indirectly impacted.
City officials in Virginia Beach and Hampton tell 13News Now they are preparing for similar impacts that came with Hurricane Erin in August.
13News Now has issued a Weather Impact Alert for Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, as Tropical Storm Imelda makes it way alongside the shore.
Virginia Beach city officials say measures are in place to minimize damage that comes with potential heavy rain, high winds and storm surge.
We're told crews are also preparing for all scenarios like possible high surf advisories, dangerous rip currents, beach overwash and coastal erosion.
Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator for Virginia Beach, Renee McKinnon, says public utility crews are checking the flow of storm drainage systems in case of flooding.
McKinnon tells 13News Now the biggest thing city departments are discussing now is the uncertainty of the forecast.
"We could still see some tidal issues, winds, obviously some rain. The forecast continues to change with the tropical storm, so we had a call this morning with staff and this afternoon. We are still doing all the actions we discussed, preparing for a worst case. Until the storm passes, we can't be for sure if it's going to impact us or not," said McKinnon.
In Hampton, City Communications Coordinator Mike Holtzclaw says several public works crews are on standby for possible impact by Buckroe Beach and in other low-lying areas.
"For much of this week, conditions at the beach might be harsher than usual," said Holtzclaw.
Holtzclaw adds that the city prepares all year long for storm impact but when a system is close to approach, monitoring storm drainage systems is a top priority.
"We will also have teams on the street looking for areas where water is backing up," Holtzclaw added.
Virginia Beach residents are encouraged to sign up for VB Alerts to receive the latest weather-related impact updates. Hampton residents can stay informed by visiting the city's social media pages.
The overarching message from leaders across Hampton Roads is to prepare with caution and monitor the forecast as much as possible.
City officials are also asking people to prepare for possible power outages. They say to be sure to have flashlights, batteries and non-perishable ready to eat food.
13News Now has reached out to other localities for ways they are preparing for the storm and are waiting to hear back.