Sandy Could Be East Hanover's 'Biggest Storm Ever,' Mayor Says

East Hanover Mayor Joseph Pannullo said he will meet with department heads and school superintendents Friday afternoon to discuss plans for Hurricane Sandy, which could hit the area as early as Sunday night.

Township employees are already out Friday morning clearing drains and storm basins of fallen leaves and putting out sandbags in preparation of the storm. "When you name something 'Frankenstorm,' you have to expect that this could be the biggest storm ever," Pannullo said.

East Hanover's Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) have been mobilized. "OEM and CERT members are all going to be ready to assist us if we need to do any evacuations."

Flooding is a real concern in East Hanover, which is bordered by the Passaic and Whippany rivers. "You have to cross a bridge to get in, you have to cross a bridge to get out," Pannullo said. "Areas have a tendency to flood."

Besides the Hanover Park and East Hanover school districts, Pannullo said township officials will also reach out to Florham Park and Hanover Township. "If we need to help one another, just like in the past we’re always there," Pannullo said.

With a storm like Sandy looming, Pannullo said it's a time "to expect the worst and hope for the best. We're going to be prepared."

More information on East Hanover's preparations for Hurricane Sandy will be available Friday afternoon.