Groton - The Naval Submarine Base is completing preparations ahead of Hurricane Sandy. The base expects to be open Monday, a spokesman said.

"We're completing our preparations to meet the severe weather and continue to monitor forecasts closely," said the base's commanding Officer, Capt. Marc W. Denno. "We'll open the base and our support activities as usual on Monday morning, but we'll be ready to make schedule adjustments and changes as conditions warrant."

Denno reminded sailors and civilian workers on the base, as well as patrons of base activities, to exercise their best judgment in reporting for work or coming to the base for a service.

"The geography of Connecticut and the impact early strong winds and rain may have on communities and roadways may vary, so non-essential base personnel should use their best judgment," said Denno. "If you're unable, or if feel it's unsafe, to travel to the base, call your supervisor who I'm sure will be looking to support leave and liberty requests as necessary."

Denno also ordered the base to set Tropical Cyclone Condition Three, which means destructive winds of greater than 50 knots associated with a tropical system are expected within 48 hours.

The base began placing some 8,000 sandbags around designated lower base facilities this morning and by the end of the day, expects to complete this process as well as to complete the placement of building flood gates at those lower base facilities designed for their use.

Denno also urged Navy families to stay informed about base issues by visiting the base Facebook page.