I am not in imminent danger. I’m am high and dry. Most of my neighbors are still here, only about 10% have left the area. We’re in a good spot. Rita was nothing here, not a single thing. We’ve had worse afternoon thunderstorms that that. Alicia was a non-event also. Alison, a little flooding around us but we were high and dry. I would not stay if I thought I was in danger. I did evacuate for Rita but my mother rode it out and it hit her (east of us) instead of us. Her house was over 40 years old and she had some limbs down but no damage to the house. I am not worried about this one either. We have a big truck if flooding started too early, we could be out of here in a few minutes.
I hope you will be posting on FR after this. This ain’t the De Nile flooding!
You are COMPLETELY misinterpreting the dangers of this storm compared to the others. Rita tracked well to the east of you, and you were on the weak side of the storm. Ike is on track to send the worst of the surge right into you. Ike is not a major wind threat. It is a surge threat comparable to Katrina, by all estimates. If you wait until you see flooding, it's too late. You should leave NOW. If not, please freepmail someone your address so we can send over authorities after the storm to see if you are still alive. 150 people are already being rescued from Bolivar because they didn't leave in time. Don't be stuck on stupid like they were.
Red Top, When I said you'd be OK if Rita didn't hurt you...I thought you were in Orange. In Deer Park, you are going to see 1000 times WORSE than Rita.
I suspect you'll be OK. In your place, I'd probably stay as well. But, I couldn't say this with certainty. This storm is like no other I've ever seen.
I expect surges at least as bad as Carla, maybe worse... and, Carla hit 150 miles south of where you are. Not, right over your head.
You're gambling with your life there. Good luck.