There is a newer forecast higher up on the blog.  A quick update: Below is the 11:30pm satellite image with a considerable amount of lightning occurring (circled; colored dots = lightning) near the developing eye. The cites of New Orleans (NO), Gulfport (G), Mobile (M) and Tampa (T) are marked for reference If you compare with the satellite images in the posting below, it is obvious the storm has become better organized and is strengthening. Those in the hurricane warning area (red in the path image in the posting below) should complete their preparations by noon Monday. The rest of the info in the posting below is still valid. Goodnight.

There is a newer forecast higher up on the blog.  ----- Note: As of 5pm, the information below is still correct. ----- Charles Peek Unfortunately, Tropical Storm Sally is expected take a path on its way inland that will cause a dangerous storm surge. Sally, like Laura before it, may undergo rapid intensification before it comes ashore. There is also a serious flood risk inland. Path Forecast Please allow me to break down the graphic for you. Red = hurricane warning. Pink = hurricane watch. Yellow = tropical storm watch. Amber = area experiencing winds tropical storm force (40 - 74 mph). H = forecast strength is hurricane (sustained winds 75 mph or higher). S = tropical storm force winds are forecast (40 to 74 mph). Maximum sustained winds with the storm will most likely be in the 100 mph range. Storm Surge Please keep in mind that the storm surge forecast  does not  include waves or astronomical tides. The 7 - 11 foot surge forecast for so...