If hurricanes aren’t exciting enough, check out these pictures that illustrate the “vibe” on the Outer Banks during a major storm.

Since Earl has been stealing the spot light for the last few days, it was just a matter of time before his “roadies” arrived. Everywhere you look is a convoy of doplar/radar equipped vans and cameramen with their fancy gear shooting and documenting everything in sight. Don’t get me wrong, Earl is DEFINITELY a force of nature that’s worth paying attention to, but it seems that the hype surrounding it is starting to go a bit “hollywood”. All within 12 hours, Earl has downgraded from 145 mph to 115 mph — and is expected to decrease in wind speed before it arrives to the Outer Banks. The eye of the storm is forecasted to be over the ocean keeping the heavy winds and most of the rain out to sea. Areas South of Oregon Inlet will certainly see the most impact as Earl brushes by with wind gusts up to 75 mph. Further North “in town” will see gusts up to 65 mph. Most locals here on the island are staying put. They have experienced these types of conditions before and know what to expect. Power outages, tidal surges, flooded waters and closed roads are what comes with living in this area. I think everyone that lives in this area can agree with me when I say…. I’ll take a hurricane over a tornado/earthquake/fire any day. At least you can spot it a thousand miles away.

On another note, Tropical Storm Fiona is on track to mow over Bermuda with 50 mph winds, then making the curve out to sea and loosing strength. Tropical Depression Gaston is still a mystery. Stay tuned.