They are saying Cat4 and possibly Cat5 at landfall and still New Orleans is the target. The destruction of a major city is exactly what is possible if the city gets a direct hit. Most people just don't realize New Orleans' disposition and vulnerability.
Are you from the area too?
No, I'm in the Houston area now. I used to live in Louisiana and always wanted to experience a hurricane. My wish came true 13 years ago when I was living there and the eye of Andrew came three miles from my house and tree limbs broke the brick exterior.
And Andrew was only a Cat 3 storm (probably only Cat 2 when I got the worst of it).