Irma On the Move...Finally

One thing you learn giving opinions in broadcasting is not everyone will agree with you.  You have to have thick skin and not take any criticism personally.  It’s so easy to be mean now with FB,Twitter & all the other social media outlets.  It often amazes me the hate that is out there.  But let’s press on.   The long awaited turn of Irma happened over night and she has moved northward over the Keys and is projected to pass right over Naples & Ft. Myers as a Cat. 3 or 4 storm.   This turn to the north was first supposed to happen sooner as Miami was the bullseye at 5 days out.  That’s why The Weather Channel’s Jim Cantore was position there.  Once it became apparent that the turn was delayed and the threat would be more along the west coast, Cantore now has shifted over to Ft. Myers.   We should see some pretty frightening video later this afternoon.   The northern part of the eyewall is about to reach Naples then head northward to Ft. Myers & then Tampa Bay.  Her forward speed has increased to 12 mph while her max winds are 120 mph.   Understand the waters of Tampa Bay have been blown out by the strong ENE winds leaving some of the mud bottom exposed like never before.   That will quickly change later this evening as Irma passes by and the winds switch directions.  Strong WSW winds will then pile water into the Bay, but it appears since Irma’s track will pass right over Tampa instead of a little offshore, water levels may not be as high as the expected 5-8’ rise.  Still, I’m sure some folks will see water where there has never been before.  As much of Irma’s circulation gets over Florida, pressures are rising and her winds should slowly weaken.    However, Irma will bring hurricane force winds all the way up into north Florida & even into south Georgia.   The much awaited northerly turn happened and now it’s straight to the north for Irma.  There show be no more surprises and TV viewing this afternoon will be interesting.  Hopefully, everyone stays safe.  Next update around 5 pm.