CHICAGO – Emergency officials in Chicago are asking residents to prepare for high winds, high waves and possible flooding along Lake Michigan as Hurricane Sandy approaches the East Coast.

Chicago's Office of Emergency Management and Communications told residents Monday that they should "stay away from the lakefront for the next two days." The National Weather Service has issued flood warnings for Chicago from 1 a.m. Tuesday until 4 p.m. Wednesday. Winds are forecast between 50 mph and 60 mph. Waves are forecast to reach between 20 and 25 feet high.

City officials say Lake Shore Drive, along Lake Michigan, is expected to remain open. But they urge motorists to proceed carefully. The Chicago Transit Authority says it will reroute buses if necessary.