NWS: Major Storm More Likely from Hurricane Sandy

Over the past 24 hours, the likelihood of a “very dangerous autumn storm system” next week has increased, according to a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Mt. Holly, NJ.

Sandy, a Category 2 hurricane, already ripped through Jamaica and Cuba and is headed for the Bahamas. 

Sandy's track is a bit uncertain this weekend and early next week, said WeatherBug Sr. Meteorologist, James West.

"It could bring soaking rain and gusty winds as far north as New England by early next week or track out to sea as it gets booted east by a cold front with minimal impact to the Eastern Seaboard other than choppy waves to the beaches," he noted.

"All interests along the East Coast should pay particularly close attention to the progress of this hurricane during the next several days," West said.

Although there is still some uncertainty whether Sandy is headed this way, Mitchell Gaines, NWS meteorologist, said the potential for a storm has risen.

“There could be strong, damaging winds, heavy rainfall with streams and rivers flooding and coastal flooding as well,” Gaines said.

Stay with Patch as this story develops.