Bergen County officials announced a state of emergency Sunday and warned Hurricane Sandy’s high winds could pose the greatest risk to the area. 

“The winds are picking up and will pick up throughout tonight, and will become the highest tomorrow through Tuesday afternoon,” Bergen County Emergency Management Coordinator Lt. Dwane Razzetti told officials in a briefing Sunday. Sustained winds could be as high as 55 miles per hour, with gusts reaching 80 miles per hour.

“This type of wind is extremely dangerous,” he said.

Hurricane Sandy was predicted to make landfall near Atlantic City, but forecasts could change, he said.

The National Weather Service issued a high wind warning for Bergen County through 6 p.m. Tuesday. In an advisory, the agency warned winds could cause widespread power outages.

A flood watch was also in place, with localized creek and urban flooding possible.

The Bergen County-area could see up to six inches of rain, according to the weather service. Razzetti said major river flooding was not expected in the county.

County administration offices will be closed Monday and Tuesday, Bergen County Executive Kathleen Donovan said. Bergen Community College and the county school district were also ordered closed. Courts will be closed Monday, and possibly Tuesday.

The closures came after Gov. Chris Christie declared a state of emergency in New Jersey, and announced public transportation would begin shutting down Sunday. 

In a briefing Thursday, county officials said they were prepared to open shelters only as needed. 

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• How to Prepare for Hurricane Sandy