RICHMOND, Va. (AP) -- Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell has declared a state of emergency ahead of Hurricane Irene's weekend arrival.

Thursday's declaration allows state resources, such as the National Guard, to be sent to Hampton Roads to help local officials.

McDonnell said he did not plan to order a statewide evacuation or reverse lanes on Interstate 64. But he cautioned eastern Virginia residents who live in low-lying areas to be ready in case of a local evacuation.

Forecasters have yet to pinpoint where the hurricane will make landfall. Irene could hit North Carolina's Outer Banks on Saturday afternoon with winds around 115 mph, then head up the coast toward Virginia.

The U.S. Navy ordered more than 60 ships out to safer waters earlier Thursday so they could better weather the storm.

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