Reply #16: Hurricanes can gain/lose

[radfringe]

windspeed several times before hitting land

Isabel was downgraded to Cat-4 yesterday morning, then back up to Cat-5 later in the day

heard one weather guy say that the winds closest to the "ground" were tracking at 160mph, but the winds higher up were measured at 192mph

In any event, this is a storm to take seriously. Those living in-land should be prepared for flooding, especially in the areas that have had alot of rain this summer. The ground is pretty saturated, river banks could "erode", trees topple from the ground being too mushy/wet to provide a good anchor

let's play this one smart, (no duct tape/plastic sheeting preparations) we've got a few days to prepare

Emergency supplies: flashlights, radio, extra batteries, candles, water, etc.

Put away/tie down or otherwise secure lawn furniture and other items that can become projectiles. Check tree branches and cut down those that may fall on powerlines or smash into windows.

Know where your emergency shelters are, keep a bag packed in case you have to get out fast. DON'T FORGET ABOUT YOUR PETS! Get their travel kennels ready to go!