RICHMOND–In advance of Hurricane Sandy, Gov. Bob McDonnell issued a limited mandatory evacuation order for low-lying areas along the Virginia coast and Chesapeake Bay.

The order grants local government officials authority to determine locations for evacuation and start times, based on local conditions. Any specific evacuation orders will be issued by local governments.

Those in eastern Virginia who live in low-lying areas that typically flood should be ready to evacuate if told to do so by local officials. Stay tuned to local TV and radio stations for instructions and additional information. The best source for information is local media and local government websites.

Some localities are beginning to open shelters or are making plans to open shelters later this weekend.

Now is the time for Virginians who live along the coast and inland to prepare for Hurricane Sandy. Rain from the system is already falling in Hampton Roads and conditions will worsen over the next few days. Make sure family members, friends and neighbors are prepared for an extended weather event. Power outages are likely for many areas of the state.

Have flashlights and extra batteries, a battery-powered and/or hand-crank radio and extra batteries in case power goes out. Have food that does not need refrigeration and one gallon of water per person per day.