SHIP BOTTOM, N.J. (AP) - Residents in the eastern third of the country from the Mid-Atlantic region to the Northeast are bracing for a major storm formed by the convergence of Hurricane Sandy and two other weather systems. 

Forecasters expect very strong winds, torrential rain and even snow in some areas from the mega-storm. Officials warn that millions of people could experience prolonged power outages. 

Several states have already declared emergencies and President Barack Obama plans to skip some campaign events tomorrow and Tuesday to monitor the situation from the White House. 

Federal, state and local emergency preparedness operations are swinging into action. 

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has told the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to prepare to shut the New York City subways, buses and suburban trains. 

Atlantic City officials say an evacuation begins at noon.

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