<P> In Massachusetts, Governor Deval Patrick declared a state of emergency on August 26, activated 500 Massachusetts National Guard troops, and also planned to activate an additional 2,000 troops the following day in preparation for the storm . In an unprecedented move, the MBTA suspended all metropolitan Boston public transportation at 8: 00 am on August 28 . </P> <P> In Vermont, Governor Peter Shumlin declared a state of emergency on August 27, in preparation for the hurricane's arrival . In a joint statement, Vermont electric utilities announced that they planned to have extra staff on hand . The National Weather Service stated that it anticipated 2--5 inches (51--127 mm) of rain on the Champlain Valley and western Vermont and 3--7 inches (76--178 mm) in the Green Mountains and eastern Vermont, with the risk of flooding near streams and rivers and an anticipated sustained wind speeds of 30--45 miles per hour (48--72 km / h) and gusts of up to 45--65 miles per hour (72--105 km / h), causing significant tree damage and damage to power lines . </P> <P> In Maine, Governor Paul LePage declared a state of emergency on August 26, in preparation for the expected arrival of Hurricane Irene on August 28 . Canadian utility and line workers were dispatched to Maine to assist in reinforcing the state's electrical infrastructure . Ten shelters were to be opened in Maine . </P> <P> Near Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, numerous large local and ocean - going vessels anchored in Bedford Basin to ride out the storm . </P>

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