This following is from the NHC 4 pm conference call, which they do before writing up the discussion that comes out at 5 pm
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Group: Meteorologist
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Joined: January 19, 05
From: Chambers Field, Norfolk, VA
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Disclaimer: This data is preliminary. Individuals should consult the official forecast issued at 5 PM EDT for OFFICIAL data and warnings.
Initial intensity looks to be set at 145 knots... based on a 161kt FL wind, and a 906mb pressure (yes 906). The plane is going back in to take another reading as we speak. This easily makes Rita a Category 5. Track basically unchanged.... and landfall intensity in the vicinity of 125 knots. Large swath of watches to be issued in this advisory. They look to hold it as a cat 5 for at least another 12 hours over the very warm loop current and ideal environment.
That answers my question. Another 2 mb drop. What was Katrina's minimum again?
Tell me there's not such a thing as a cat 6... right?