Virginia Beach prepares for Sandy

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) - The region's largest coastal community is keeping an eye on Hurricane Sandy.

Photos: Hurricane Sandy

A potential exists for moderate beach erosion and some flooding from possible heavy rain. City Water Resources Engineer Phillip Roehrs says an upgraded drainage system at the Oceanfront could stand its first major test in the coming days.

"We now have positive pump storm water drainage for the entire Oceanfront from Rudee Inlet to 89th Street," Roehrs said.

The latest on Hurricane Sandy

Virginia Beach First Responders met with representatives with the National Weather Service Friday morning to get some idea of what to expect from Sandy.

A storm surge of about 10 feet is expected along the Oceanfront and six feet along the bay.

Public works officials are encouraging those living in low-lying sections of the city to make preparations for high winds and flooding.

City of Virginia Beach spokesman Drew Landford says Public Works crews began building a berm Friday morning at 1st Street near Grommett Park, in preparation for Sandy. That area doesn't have a wall like the rest of the Oceanfront beach.

Parking will be available at the following locations and times:

• 9th Street and 31st Street garages will be open for free parking 11 p.m. Saturday though 6 a.m. Tuesday
• Town Center garages are always open and free
• 19th Street and 25th Street surface lots will be open to free parking during the same times, but they are not on higher ground

WAVY News 10 is closely tracking the storm's path on air and online. Click here for the Super Doppler 10 team's latest blogs on Sandy.