Hurricane Irene edges closer to US coast

Authorities on the east coast of the US, from North Carolina to New York City, are preparing for the arrival of Hurricane Irene this weekend.

The first hurricane of the Atlantic season is a category three storm, packing winds of 115mph (185km/h), and expected to get stronger.

The US Navy is moving dozens of its ships out to sea, to protect them and their ports from high waves.

Hurricane Irene, has already caused havoc in the Caribbean.

Steve Kingstone reports.