Emergency officials on the Georgia coast are keeping a close eye on Hurricane Irene and say residents should make sure they have plans in order if evacuations are necessary.

The National Hurricane Center said Monday that Irene could strike the southeast U.S. anywhere from Florida to North Carolina by the end of the week. The storm was churning just northeast of the Dominican Republican on Monday morning.

Kelly Foster, an emergency management spokeswoman for Chatham County, says officials are monitoring the storm closely and notes the forecast could change dramatically in the coming days.

Jay Wiggins, Glynn County's emergency management director, says his office is receiving several calls from concerned residents in the Brunswick area. He says it's a great reminder for residents to have hurricane plans and supplies ready.

Tags: Georgia, Glynn County, weather, Chatham County, hurricane preparedness