Happy Active Atlantic Basin!
I’ve tried not to weigh in on Earl, but i’ve been bombarded with inquiries. So while I love you all dearly, it seems easier to post here in a blanket statement than to answer individual emails
There’s good news and bad news…which do you want first?
OK…the bad news is that Earl has strengthened this evening. The satellite presentation is impressive with a crisp-edged eye structure. The 11pm advisory will increase the winds to 140-145mph.
The good news is that, while we can’t be certain, it does look like the eye of Earl will pass offshore of Cape Hatteras by about 50 to 75 miles. Problem is that the hurricane-force sustained winds extend out about 90 miles from the center and tropical storm-force winds about 240ish. So, while the immediate coast is not out of the woods, because we’re not completely sure of the track, it seems most likely that most of the NC coast will have an active 12 or so hours tomorrow night with a quick return to normal as Earl pulls away quickly. In his wake, we have a hot day with the compensating subsidence making for temps near 100. But then things get nice for the rest of the holiday weekend with the passage of a cold front.
On the heels of Earl is Fiona, which is no threat. But more intriguing in its potential for trouble is Gaston for the following weekend.
Final note…the pic on the top banner is of Earl taken yesterday from the International Space Station. Enjoy!
