We are headed over to the Outer Banks this afternoon to secure the house as best we can, and move the boat. We are concerned they will close the bridges sometime tomorrow or Friday for one way traffic to head out, so we want to make sure we can get "in" before they do that. Irene is expected to reach Category 3 by Saturday early morning. Category 3 hurricanes carry winds of 133-155 mph.
At this point, speculation is that Irene will hit Cape Hatteras and continue up the Outer Banks taking it right over our place (the red dot) Saturday sometime. We live right on the island surrounded by the Sound on the left, and the Atlantic Ocean on the right.
If the Outer Banks takes a direct hit of a Cat 3 hurricane I can't even begin to imagine the devastation. Living in Florida for 25 years, I've experienced my share of hurricanes (including Andrew,) and seen quite a bit of damage.
But while the houses in Florida are poured concrete or concrete block, the houses on the Outer Banks are wood frame, many cedar shingled, on stilts. They are oftentimes surrounded by water on both sides for the most part. I can't even begin to imagine the devastation that will occur not only to the structures, but to the Outer Banks (barrier islands) themselves.
Heading over to the Banks from Raleigh today, we can't dwell on the "what ifs." All we can do instead, is prepare the property and head to safety, returning Sunday or monday morning to see if the Outer Banks as we left it - still remains.
Be SAFE.
Keeping good thoughts for you and everyone out there. Lets hope it heads away instead. Keep us posted.
ReplyDeleteWord veri is.. exodene..
Very wise Cathie, to head for the mainland asap.
ReplyDeleteI lived on Grand Turk for many years and feel lucky that we were never hit by a hurricane, and have been watching Irene's progress, which so far seems to have affected the electricity supply and to have blown down some poles on the Island.
Good luck, hope that you escape the worst of it. Lesley x
My thoughts are with you!
ReplyDeletePraying for the best for you and all those who live in those areas.
ReplyDeleteMay you be safe and sound; and your property too. xoox
I've been thinking about you and your lovely new property out there as I hear updates on the hurricane. I hope you will not sustain much damage. Just wouldn't be fair!
ReplyDeletePraying for you and many there.
ReplyDeletei'm assuming this is a second home for you? as you also live in Raleigh. Hope everything gets secured. I thought the stilts were supposed to deflect some of the wave power. I have a friend who lives on Ocracoke, her main residence, and usually she vacates. Of course that means taking a ferry as there is no bridge or so I understand. hurricanes are scary for sure. be well, Suki
ReplyDeleteHoping everyone will be safe
ReplyDeletePrayers for you and your family, and your property Cathie!
ReplyDeleteI do hope you are spared much damage. I've been there and I know how scary these things are. I'm glad that you are looking out for your own safety. Nature will do what nature does. I'll be watching it all unfold on the Weather Channel and I'll be thinking of you.
ReplyDelete