The National Weather Service is warning of a possible hurricane impact and storm surge conditions for Wareham and surrounding towns.

The storm, dubbed “Henri,” is projected to reach Wareham with tropical storm conditions Saturday night and potentially reach hurricane strength on Sunday. Tropical storm conditions could continue through the day on Monday.

On Friday afternoon, trucks towing boats zipped through Onset as owners worked to get their vessels out of the water.

At the boat launch across from 12th St., John Cornish of Atlantic Boats waited in line to pull a 20-foot boat owned by one of his customers out of the water. Cornish remembered being at that same boat launch ahead of Hurricane Bob in 1991 – the last major hurricane to impact the area.

Cornish said that it’s impossible to predict exactly how the storm will impact the town, but it’s best to be prepared. 

“Plan for the worst,” he said. “Be safe.”

Cornish said he’d been up hauling boats since about 6 a.m. While he and some others were out getting boats in early, Cornish predicted Saturday would be “nuts.”

“If you’ve got a trailer in your backyard, it’s better to have the boat on it,” Cornish said.

At Safe Harbor in Onset, the marina was so busy Wareham Week couldn’t find a parking spot.

At Zecco Marina, office staff said phones had been ringing off the hook all day. Sam Zecco said he and his staff were working to get all 120 boats at the marina out of the water before the storm — a monumental task.

“It’s all hands on deck,” Zecco said. 

According to a Friday report from the National Weather Service, the storm could bring tropical storm-force winds of 30 to 40 miles per hour with gusts up to 45 miles per hour. People are urged to act now to prepare for considerable wind damage. 

Wind could cause considerable roof damage to sturdy buildings, with the potential for severe damage to mobile homes. Large trees may be snapped or uprooted, and some roads may become impassable. Power and communication outages are expected.

The service is also predicting storm surges up to 3 to 5 feet above ground around high tide. Buildings along the coast may be damaged, and major beach erosion from strong and numerous rip currents is forecasted. 

Marinas, docks and piers may be damaged, and small craft may break away.

The Department of Natural Resources is urging owners to take boats in ahead of the storm — and to act quickly, as boat ramps will get busy. Those with kayaks, tenders or rowboats along the shoreline are also asked to bring those vessels in.

Rainfall could also be extensive, totalling between 3 and 6 inches. Rainfall could cause flooding and small streams may overflow.

Luckily, tornadoes are deemed unlikely.

All shellfishing in the state will be closed as of daybreak on Sunday morning.

Town Administrator Derek Sullivan suggests residents check out the state’s guide to hurricane and tropical storm safety.