[Velveeta]

The guy on the weather channel just reported that "this is a nightmare scenario" something about the pressure dropping and the hurricane gaining even more strength as a result.

[nwctwx]

I would be surprised if they don't name it a Cat 5 in the next advisory. The pressure is now doen to 943mb, which is a Cat 5 (in the books). The windspeed was 145 at 964mb, and it is 19mb stronger now... Sustained winds are likely near 155mph in the eyewall.

[JellyJam]

We have a TV station in the newsroom; it's called SNN6. It's available only via Comcast. Their radar shows the eye just about to hit Captiva Island, which is right at the mouth of Charlotte Harbor. It could go right up the gut, to Punta Gorda.

I was just outside. Wind is picking up; the rain is steady but manageable. Anyone who has been in a hurricane can't help but be impressed with this force of nature. The clouds are really low and you can see them moving in a circular motion; it's quite a sight to see. (When Andrew hit, it was nearly dawn, and the clouds were a beautiful orange.)

I meant to mention this earlier. On the way into work, I saw a kid mowing his lawn - at noon, just a few hours from hurricane landfall. I couldn't help but laugh. Some people lose all common sense during times like this.

UPDATE: There's a tornado moving north-northeast at 25 mph near Sebring. I'm not exactly sure where that is.

[appalachian_dweller]

Off Topic:

Has anyone heard from ExSoldier? Sure hope he's okay.

Seen reports that Charlie has stalled just off shore, pressure down to 943mb. Could be a CAT5 by now.

[drymans wife]

I have been watching this thing since yesterday and the
pressure just keeps dropping, it is going to be a nightmare.