However, the slower forward speed increases the rain potential.
Finally, tornados are always a possibility. Wind Risk Areas shows the inland potential of a Cat 3 landfall for various forward speeds.
Hurricane Rita Lashes Florida Keys
Rita promised to continue gaining strength as it crossed the warm Gulf of Mexico for a weekend landfall, most likely in Texas although Louisiana could end up in the path of what could become a major hurricane.
....."Right now, we expect that Rita will remain a Category 1 hurricane as it affects the Keys," said Chris Sisko, also a meteorologist at the hurricane center. "Further out, we do anticipate further strengthening up to Category 3, or major hurricane status." Category 3 storms have maximum sustained wind of 130 mph.....
http://www.comcast.net/news/index.jsp?cat=GENERAL&fn=/2005/09/20/225163.html