Hartford — Connecticut emergency management officials say they're still preparing for Hurricane Joaquin, even though the storm is predicted to pass to the southeast of New England on Tuesday.

Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner Dora Schriro said Friday "we do not expect Joaquin to have a major impact on Connecticut," but added, "we cannot let our guard down."

In a conference call with reporters, Deputy Commissioner William Shea said the state has been in contact with federal officials and the state's largest electric utility, Eversource. The state's debris removal contractor remains on standby in case the storm takes a different track.

Schriro said it's a good time for residents to stock up on needed supplies, including bottled water, in case another storm reaches Connecticut.