MIDDLEBORO — Town officials described the forecast for Hurricane Lee as being “much better” than previously predicted, but are still preparing for heavy rain and potential flash flooding. 

“The forecast as of 8 a.m. today was much better than yesterday’s forecast,” said Middleboro Gas and Electric Department General Manager Jackie Crowley. “It really doesn’t look like we will be in the primary zone.”

Police, fire and town officials discussed emergency preparedness for the hurricane expected to hit Massachusetts on Saturday morning during a Local Emergency Planning Committee meeting on Thursday, Sept. 14.

According to Middleboro Fire Chief Owen Thompson, the storm is predicted to mostly affect the coast. 

“We are hoping overall that this storm is pretty much staying on the sea unless it takes a drastic turn,” said Thompson. 

Thompson said that residents should be aware of the potential flash flooding risk. 

“Our ground is very saturated with rainwater right now and there are not a lot of places for it to go,” said Thompson. “We could see flooding on the roads at a faster rate.”

Crowley encouraged residents to stay off the roads during the storm.

According to Crowley, the Middleboro Gas and Electric Department is anticipating service being down in affected areas.

“It is not anything that we are not used to,” said Crowley. “Our employees are aware that they should be ready to respond.”

Crowley noted that backup services including additional tree crews will also be on standby. 

According to Middleboro Police Chief Joseph Perkins, extra staff will work during the storm to handle storm-related calls. 

An emergency shelter will be made available to those in need at the John T. Nichols Jr. Middle School. 

According to Crowley, residents are encouraged to report power outages via the Middleboro Gas and Electric Department website at //www.mged.com/ .