Hurricane Sandy continues to move to the north and is forecast to remain off the coast, according to the National Weather Service. A tropical storm watch has been issued for Beaufort County, and a tropical storm warning issued for the waters off the coast.

The coast should see 20- to 30-mph winds tonight through Saturday with tropical storm force gusts, according to Hilton Head Island Emergency Management.

"It is recommended you secure or store any lose items that could cause damage to your property," according to an emergency alert issued by the town this afternoon.

Winds off the coast (beyond 20 miles) will increase to tropical storm force later today and continue through Saturday, with sustained winds of 30 to 40 knots with gusts to 50 knots possible, according to the town and weather service.

"There is a possibility of some minor coastal flooding tonight and Saturday night. Also, Hilton Head Island should expect high surf and strong rip currents tonight through Sunday," the alert reads.

Hurricane Sandy was about 440 miles southeast of Savannah as of 11 a.m. with winds up to 80 mph, according to the weather service.

Small watercraft are advised to remain docked and well-secured.

The weather service urged residents to closely monitor the forecast for changes and take necessary precautions.

Keep checking islandpacket.com for further updates.