Portsmouth officials announced an emergency declaration in a tweet Wednesday morning, citing the threat of Dorian and its potential impact on Portsmouth.
An emergency shelter will open at I.C. Norcom High on Thursday at noon as an emergency shelter, and all city schools and school administrative offices will be closed both Thursday and Friday.
Portsmouth city offices will be closed on Friday, but essential personnel must report. City garages will open Thursday at 8 a.m. for people to store vehicles, which can remain in the garage until 7 a.m. Monday morning.