The 5:00 pm advisory this evening shows Irene tracking inland (below) as it goes north of Cape May. We'll see how this forecast holds up...
Here is a summary of the latest (pdf) Irene Impact Statement (attached). It is somewhat better (not quite as disastrous) as the one from 11:00 am today:
"We are expected to receive a significant impact from Hurricane IRENE. Easterly gale force winds should start affecting the area on Saturday, August 27th at 6 PM EDT with storm force winds arriving around 3 AM Sunday and Easterly hurricane force winds arriving near 6 AM. The highest wind speeds from Hurricane IRENE should occur near 10 AM Sunday when top sustained winds, from the Southeast, could reach 90 MPH with gusts near 112 MPH. Winds should decrease below hurricane force 4 hours later. Sustained winds will fall below gale force after 6 PM and generally be from the North during this period of decreasing winds. Expect gusts above gale force level for several more hours thereafter.
"Wind damage from Hurricane IRENE could include broken glass in doors and windows. Uplift of roof deck and loss of significant roofing material.
"It may also include collapse of chimney, garage doors and damage to porches and/or carports.
"The total rainfall for the Sea Isle City / Strathmere area over the next 3 days is forecast to be 8.5 inches. This can vary significantly as tropical storm and hurricane rainfall is very difficult to predict."
As you have no doubt heard, Strathmere and the other barrier islands are currently under a mandatory evacuation order, which will be extended to all of Cape May County tomorrow.
Stay safe!
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