I grew up in the Midwest where tornados are the biggest weather threat. They usually give very little warning which is the scariest part. I moved to this area shortly before Floyd hit and heard a lot of talk about preparedness and “hunkering down.” Some guy on the radio was cracking jokes about how hurricanes made everyone crave French Toast. I didn’t get it at the time. When I saw how everyone prepared and knew about Floyd in advance, and even heard hurricane jokes, I really relaxed. It seemed like the biggest worry was losing power so as long as I had my flashlights and peanut butter, I’d be all set. When Floyd first hit, I admit I was disappointed. It just rained a lot. I had seen Midwest thunder storms more exciting. And then the news of eastern NC started to spread. We were deluged for days with pictures of massive flooding and devastation. Many lives were lost and thousands more were forever tainted with horrible memories. I’m embarrassed now to remember how I didn’t take it seriously. While I’m not panicking about Hannah or the other possible storms, I am paying attention. If there is a real threat to this area, I wouldn’t hesitate to pack up my kids and head north.

I think you're doing the right thing, AHamm, to pay attention instead of panic. Hurricanes are a way of life along our coast, and officials have gotten better at preparing, and residents are LISTENING more. I'm in Gulf Shores, AL, and we're keeping a close eye on the storm activity. Here in our area, our public officials are really on top of things.

I know that whatever happens, there is good information coming to us, and that the most important thing is preserving life. Houses we can rebuild.

All the best to you!