I got the call!

[RJ HEDLEY]

  I am just 35 miles SSE from Gator..

[R9SCarry]

So far at least RJ ... East seems the better direction to be in.

Sincerely hope you guys weather the storm OK.

[DDGator]

A bit further than that RJ -- my residence is actually in Clearwater.  I am right in the middle of the Pinellas County penninsula.

Right now it looks like this freaking storm is headed right up the mouth of Tampa Bay -- and most likely as a Category 3.  We haven't taken a hit like this since 1921.  Over 380,000 people have been ordered to evacuate by 6am tomorrow.  They are saying that is the largest peace-time evacation every ordered in the U.S.  

Its getting a bit crazy.  Everything is closed and boarded up.  I am a bit worried about my roof surviving the estimated 4+ hours of 120 mph winds.

I will update for as long as I can stay on the 'net.  We are not in an evacuation zone so we are riding it out at home.  This could get ugly.

Right now we are still getting some clouds and rain from the passing of Tropical Storm Bonnie.  The Hurricane Charley weather should start to arrive in the morning.

And -- the R-9 didn't make it home for me to play with either!

[Texas_Bob]

 "All objects" are replaceable, human life isn't. Hunker down and stay safe.

[RJ HEDLEY]

Well. if anytime with your name on it blows by here, I'll send it Back to you..

Be careful, keep your head down...

[gunner930]

 Yes, you guys in FL be safe! Tampa, St. Pete, Clearwater, ect... is like a second home to me as I've been going down there ever since my early childhood. That and being on this forum makes me feel like we're next door neighbors. Your sincerely in my thoughts!

[shelb]

You guys be careful, and stay safe.

[Richard S]

RJ and Duane:

I'll be up several times during the night watching the progress of that storm.  My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours, my friends.  Hang in there!

RS  

[DDGator]

Thanks guys...  I think I have the "lead" position in taking the brunt of this storm.  We will see.  We have done everything we can.  Its all over now but the waiting.  It will be over by Saturday morning and we can assess the damage.

I'll keep ya posted.  Maybe post some pics later from the eye of the storm!

[Richard S]

Duane:

To invoke the old NASA blessing,  "God Speed."

RS

[R9SCarry]

I'll add my bit again .. seriously guys .. rooting for you.  I am not a religious guy but sure as heck, you are in my thoughts.

Mother nature is awesome and scary sometimes .. and we are but feeble and small entities.  Do all you can to keep heads down and ride this out .... and i hope very much that come the weekend, you can report back in with some positive news .. here's hoping.

[DDGator]

We are in the calm before the storm. Took some "before" pictures of my house...

They are saying this is looking like a "worst case scenario" for Pinellas County and the whole Tampa Bay area -- right up the mouth of the bay.  110+ mph sustained winds.  Gusts over 125 mph.

Never seen anything like this.  I feel like I have to go do something...

Thanks for the thoughts.  Will keep you posted.  The hurricane force winds are expected from about 8pm to 11pm.

[RJ HEDLEY]

Dang it, I hate it has to hit at night ! It has been a long time since I have gone through this, but I still remember
*Hurricane  Dona*

[9mil.mouse]

Thinking of you guys and wishing you and yours, and your property the best during the big winds. If I wasn't all the way over here on the left coast I'd come over and help you nail up plywood. LUCK!

[R9SCarry]

Just seen it now called a Cat' 4 .. and 145 mph winds ... oh my, that is one big mother.  I continue to wish everyone there a safe transition thru to calmer times.  Knowing I can do nothing to help is more than frustrating.