Va. declares state of emergency

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) _ Governor Tim Kaine is directing Virginia officials to prepare for Tropical Storm Hanna. Check the local forecast

Kaine on Thursday declared a state of emergency, which authorizes state agencies to identify and preposition resources for quick response wherever they are needed in Virginia.

Kaine says current forecasts predict Hanna will bring tropical storm force winds to Virginia. Those conditions could cause coastal flooding, and the possibility of tornadoes and power outages.

The Virginia Department of Emergency Management has staffed the Virginia Emergency Operations Center with response team members. The Virginia State Police, Virginia National Guard and Virginia Department of Transportation also have additional personnel on standby.