Hurricane Irene Sets Sights on Florida

By Douglas V. Gibbs

Irene is not a hurricane yet, but the tropical storm is likely to become a raging hurricane by the time it continues along a path through the Caribbean, and right up into the south Atlantic Coast of the United States. Currently, Irene is dumping heavy rain, and bringing gusty winds, to portions of the Lesser Antilles and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Irene is moving farther north than originally anticipated, which means she will strike Puerto Rico, slap the northern edge of Hispaniola Monday, and likely strengthen into a hurricane before the next day is complete.

The storm looks like it may graze areas between Miami, Florida, and Wilmington, North Carolina, with even the possibility of sending unwanted rain as far north as Philadelphia and New York City.

-- Political Pistachio Conservative News and Commentary

"...Irene to strengthen into a hurricane within the next 12-24 hours." - AccuWeather