After a week of going through every computer model disagreement to finally zoning in on a solution and seeing just what a powerhouse Sandy would become, it is time, unfortunately, for it all to unfold.

The following alerts remain in effect for the Mahoning Valley:

High wind WARNING from noon today through 4pm Tuesday.,

Flood WATCH through 8pm Tuesday.

Everything is in line as expected with the forecast. The heaviest rain and strongest winds will begin later this afternoon and continue overnight into the first part of Tuesday. Most of our winds will be between 20 and 30 mph, with gusts in the 40-50 mph range. During the overnight tonight we may see some gusts around 60 mph though. Near the lakeshore, winds can be near 70 mph at times.

While widespread power outages are not likely, at least over east Ohio, some places will lose power while winds pick up. Make sure you have flashlights, batteries, gas in your car, and cash with you as precaution should you be without power.