The threat of Florence continues to loom over the East Coast as the risk of direct impacts from the storm has increased, according to the National Hurricane Center. Its track remains uncertain, but residents are encouraged to be prepared regardless.

Wind speeds are expected to gradually decrease over the weekend, but the tropical storm is likely to re-intensify back to hurricane strength by the end of the weekend, according to the Friday report. Florence is expected to become a major hurricane by Wednesday.

Florence is moving due west and is expected to continue moving westward throughout the weekend. As the storm strengthens, it is expected to begin turning west-northwest, and a blocking ridge — an elongated area of relatively high pressure — will keep Florence moving on that trajectory.

“However, there is still very large uncertainty in model forecasts of Florence’s track beyond (Wednesday), making it too soon to determine the exact location, magnitude and timing of these impacts,” the report states.

National Weather Service Wakefield meteorologist Brendan Schaper said there is the potential for heavy rainfall in Suffolk around Wednesday and Thursday, based on the information available as of Friday. That’s subject to change as more information comes to light throughout the weekend.

There’s also a 30- to 50-percent chance of rainfall this Saturday and Sunday, followed by a 20- to 30-percent chance on Monday, Schaper said.

“Right now, it’s looking like we’ll be along the northern envelope of that (ridge) and won’t see as great of a wind threat if that were to occur. Just more of a heavy rainfall type of event,” he said.

City of Suffolk spokeswoman Diana Klink stated in an email that the Department of Emergency Management is closely monitoring the forecast. Other departments are checking “equipment, vehicles, fuel, staffing levels and other related issues as they remain prepared for any circumstances.”

“It’s always recommended that our citizens take their own precautions during hurricane season to ensure they have an emergency kit with supplies for at least three days for each person in their household, trim any trees that could cause a hazard to their homes, clean drains and gutters, and secure patio furniture and other items that could pose a risk during heavy winds,” Klink stated.