A storm shelter at is up and running for anyone interested in evacuating their homes as Hurricane Irene approaches.
Turnout was light as of 1:30 p.m. Saturday with less than 10 people registered. Red Cross officials said they expect more people to show up as the storm draws closer.
"There have been people coming by an inquiring and I think we will see more later in the day," said Jeff O'Neil, shelter manager.
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Maximum capacity at the shelter is 1000, but O'Neil said he doesn't anticipate anywhere close to that number registering through the evening.
Volunteers began prepping the Whitman gym in South Huntington by 7 a.m. with the first residents registering at 11:30 a.m., according to O'Neil. The facility provides, cots, blankets, food and water for residents.
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"It's a safe place in a not so safe environment," said O'Nell.
O'Neil said he anticipates the shelter to remain open at least until Sunday, but conditions could change based on the track and intensity of the storm.
The Red Cross did not allow photos inside the facility.
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