With the threat of Hurricane Sandy hitting our area, local residents are preparing for what could be one of the biggest storms the east coast has seen in nearly two generations.

Congressman Chris Van Hollen, a member of the 8th district said Maryland is ready for the worst case scenario.

"The Governor has declared a state of emergency in advance so we are ahead of the curve in terms of preparing to deal with the storm and the after math. We are all going to be working together to do exactly that, working with county governments in all of these areas," Congressman Vanhollen said.

Other local residents are getting their homes ready.

"John Delaney, who is running for Congress in the 6th district, said "Personally, my wife and I have done with our family what everyone should be doing in light of the state of emergency that has been declared, which is making sure we have water and things we need around the house."

Marvin Sakin said his home is ready for what this storm could bring.

"Last night, what was outside that wasn't tied down, I brought inside. Fortunately, where I live, we live up high so the water flows away, we usually don't get any water damage," Sakin said.

Residents across the region stopped by local grocery stores to stock up on necessary items in case the storm knocks out power.

"We've got a generator and just a lot of gas, stocking up on water. We have a well at my house so just stocking up on water in the refrigerator and cooled down. [We're] stocking up on canned foods just in case, non-perishables, you just never know how long it's going to last," Jordan from Pennsylvania said.

The National Weather Service announced that Hurricane Sandy will bring winds up 75 m.p.h. and heavy rainfall within the next few days. The winds and rains coupled together, could potentially cause severe tree and power line damage and could knock out power for a few days. Officials suggest residents get enough food and water for their homes in case the power is out for a few days.