Riding Ike Out, My Perspective From Galveston...

Good Evening All,

It's been three years since Rita took a hard right and spared us. I don't have such high hopes this time...

I love storm chasing programs on television. I've always thought that someday I will retire chasing storms in Oklahoma, (a hopefully more blue Oklahoma). It's risky for me to stay, but our great Mayor, in all her wisdom, waited too late to call for a mandatory evacuation, (in my opinion). Rumor is Governor Goodhair, (looking like he's in need of a haircut for once), stepped in and forced her hand this morning. Perhaps it's the only good thing he's ever done...

Too many people are staying this time. The island is alive and people are out walking the Seawall. I rode out Rita and lost power for 5 days. I figure about 20,000 of my fellow islanders have decided to stay this time. Remembering the Great Galveston Hurricane of 1900, I can't help but cringe at what may happen tomorrow night.

I express this worry, yet here I sit chatting online and via text message with friends in Dallas, Houston, Denton, and other points North. There is an empty feeling in me. A mix of excitement of what I'll see tomorrow, exhaustion from helping others board up at the last minute, and fear over what will become of my partner, who has refused to leave this time.

Wish us luck. Tomorrow, when rested, the storm chaser inside will emerge. But tonight, I fear we will need all the luck we can get.

I got a call from the Obama team in Illinois tonight on my cell phone. They asked me to volunteer. Bright spot of the day. Of course I said yes...

Jeffy

Galveston and hurricanes don't mix too well. :(

One of them said they'd never heard such dire warnings in all their coverage of hurricanes. They think the seawall will be over topped. Please be safe.

is that where you are now?

Funny addresses here.

but the weather forecasters say "you will die," in certain situations.

Why aren't you guys outta there? I mean, is there a reason? Lousy car? Can't afford it? I mean, seriously---what's the deal here?

Do you have pets? Have you at least surrendered them to a rescue group that can save them?

In my neighborhood and my boss' neighborhood, too many seniors. They need help boarding up. We did it for them during Rita, we did it today. They're scared, they need someone to help them feel like someone cares.

Second reason, stupidity. I want to see it.

?

Large dog. Very large. She won't handle an evac well.

More concerns. A mother cat had 4 kittens under our house a few weeks ago. I have been feeding them on my porch steps every night for 3 weeks. They are still skittish around me. They won't survive. They'll be the first to go.

I have canned cat food here tonight. Tomorrow morning--a trap. Lure them onto the porch, (which is shuttered), and shut the door behind. They don't deserve to die any more than that dog doesn't in a car stuck on some freeway for 8 hours.

and making great decisions.

I don't care if the big dog has problems with evac---too bad. Our little doggie can't handle a "bad poop spot." Tough shit.

Save the animals. I don't care if an adult chooses to party through the storm---hey, party on Garth--whatever---but, save the beings that depend on you to think for them.

Trust me. I saved more than one during Rita. But I also have a boat. There will be more than just kittens needing saving after he's passed.

let it sit on the trailer but have it unhooked from the winch on front...

:)

I've done the same thing in flood situations when I lived in Missouri...keep it covered till you need it if you can and I assume the battery is charged and good to go :) :hi:

That's insanity. There were 50-foot seas when it hit Haiti and killed a bunch of people. And I'm pretty sure they had all moved to high ground.

Anchors really don't do squat in 20 foot storm surges, but if you have to axe your way out of the attic, the boat will be right at your level. Assuming, of course, it hasn't been washed away by then or smashed by other storm debris. :(

Sending good thought, prayers your way for everyone's safety.

An article at Weather Underground said the eyewall is collapsing, which means a new one will likely form overnight, allowing for increased intensity before landfall.

At this point, I think the best we can hope for is continuing drift to the east, so that you come in on the weak quadrant. Good luck to all of you in Galveston!! Have a cold one for me!

This is what government SHOULD be doing. This is the kind of thing that's WHY countries need governments--not to tell us we shouldn't have abortions or smoke cigarettes in bars, or that we should invade some random country halfway around the world that has never been a serious threat and never will.

It's all about economies of scale and levels of discipline and training. Used to be, idealistic young people who signed up for the National Guard had some faith they'd be doing mostly exactly this kind of work. It used to be a good way to help protect your home state and your neighbors when it was needed.

Not anymore. Now "government" makes no pretense of helping the elderly or the sick or the poor (or, gods forbid, all of the above) in times of disaster.

I. HATE. THEM.

And love you. Please, please be safe. Don't be cocky. It's more important to be alive. We need every decent soul we can get.

the second reason is stupidity - please, don't do it. This is your life and you only have one chance at it. I realize that you could walk across the street and get slaughtered by a bus but that risk is nothing compared to what Ike is doing.

If there are so many elderly down in Galvston why isn't the National Guard out there helping these people board up and get moving. Oh wait, the RNC was 2 weeks ago

:grr:

Can't say I wouldn't do the same, to be honest.

Local reports have SH 87 between Sabine Pass and Port Arthur is impassable. The same reported for 87 between High Island and the Galveston ferry. The water is 8 inches deep over SH 124 17 miles South of Winnie.

I fear for people from this storm. They don't understand the surge.

http://www.amazon.com/Big-Blow-Joe-R-Lansdale/dp/1892284987


Best to you, riding this out. Here in Cali, we get earthquakes. They just come -- no days of suspense *waiting* for one...!

should help repel some of the surge, but I'm afraid you could be in for a rough weekend. Stay safe.

We are staying down the road here about 20 miles from MAtagorda Bay, but we aren't getting the highest velocity winds, nordo we have to worry about flooding.

I'll keep you in my thoughts and hopes for an "easy ride" over the next few days.

...surge from the harborside. This is where the Seawall won't save the city.

Police and fire crews are actively knocking on doors and assisting people to leave. I've been through more hurricanes than I can count, and this is NOT one I would fuck with.

you might be under water soon.

houses they will die.

Please leave....but it's up to you...be safe.

MOVE!!!

Just heard Anderson Cooper say the order is get out or be prepared to die. Talking about 20-30+ feet of water over 15ft houses - regardless of seawall.
Sure hope you are not irresponsible enough to be holding children there.

Get away from the coast.

People panic when they call for mandatory evacs, all of Harris county tries to get out before coastal residents, and all the highways turn into parking lots. Houston metro has about 6 million people, and you just can't effectively evacuate that many people in a 2 day time period. You just can't, and I really feel for the local officials. They had no good options, either order people to leave for them to die on the highway or let them stay by choice. I really don't know what they could have done with so few good options.

Have a glass of wine, it always makes things better. At least the cajun in me says so. :)



And off topic, but wtf is the Weather Channel talking about evac out of Corpus and contraflow? Good lord, I hope those people are staying put.

Do you have an axe, a life preserver, a sharpie for your last will and testiment written on your thigh?

Head for high ground while you can.

http://mostlycajun.com/wordpress/?p=1434



They're now saying that the storm surge will likely be almost 10 feet over the seawall at Port Arthhur. :(

short as it may turn out to be.

time of his life.

But, if he has pets, or children, and they aren't safe....

Then I will be pissed as shit. Pissed. Even if the pets are goldfish.

Please, take of yourself and get out ASAP. This storm is very serious and deceptive. It has more energy in it than Katrina, it's spread out farther. The storm surge is going to devastate Galveston.

But I'll post until it comes, and I kill the mains. Then the generator will help. Live blogging fun!

This storm will not be the end of me, trust me, where I am will be fine, but I fear it will be the end of too many others here.

I read in Wikipedia that the highest point on the island is 20 ft. That doesn't sound too high, the Weather Channel is talking about the weird nature of this storm. It's really powerful, but it's deceptively so because the winds aren't high speed, they're just spread out over a very wide swath.

I just hope you folks will be OK. That's good of you to stay with the older folks down the way, but you've got to make sure you'll be OK too.

Look, I wouldn't dare stay if I wasn't going to be safe. People will need help afterwards. I didn't post this thread to shock others into the fear that I'm going down. I did it because I like posting here, and it's late. I thought others would be interested, but that's just because I'm interested. And I'm not saying you're not, or that others aren't.

I love History. Galveston has a wonderful, and scary History. Part of me wants to see History happen, all of me wants to help where I can. I wouldn't be foolish enough to stick around to do either if I didn't have a high degree of confidence in my own personal odds.

I think you're going to need it, Cantore says the storm surge potential is worse than Alicia, because this storm is bigger. Wind damage may be just as bad. If that gives you any idea of what to expect.

According to Weather Underground, the storm surge there is estimated close to 20 feet.



This does not sound like a good idea.

Does your ISP have a generator?

...granted not a joking time, but to relieve pressure.

and good luck to you and yours, Jeffrey.

that some of the waves that hit Eastern Cuba were five (apartment) storeys high!! Please be careful and stay safe. :grouphug:

people freak and panic and suddenly they can't move.

tell your elderly neighbors to grab their pets, carpool--get whoever else can drive--and follow you. tell them you all are going on a well deserved vacation.

please don't stick around there just to see the fucking thing. watch it on teevee like i will be doing.

nobody thinks something will happen to them. The reality is that you have absolutely no control over this. Good luck to you, but honestly you should get the hell out along with any of your neighbors.

Oh baby, god how wonderful and amazing are you Jeffrey :/KISS:

I know you'll be OK.. I'm sure you're prepared for the worst and we're hoping for the best.

I'm in tears:cry: :shrug:

I live in Florida and only we know what it is to go thru a hurricane of this magnitude. You still have time. you helped your seniors of ur community. You need to leave. Obama needs you alive and most importantly, you need to see Obama be inaugurated!.

Get out now!!

You are a great guy for helping out your neighbours. Stay safe, okay?

You are in very real danger of being killed.

Because she will get blamed if there are deaths because she called it too late.

But most people here are pretty reliably D. Galveston is the most liberal voting bloc in TX outside Austin. I guess her party is probably BOI--Born on Island. They're kind of stuck up.

You'd think if she has old roots here she would have declared the evac on Monday or Tuesday.

MAXIMUM WATER LEVELS FORECAST:

GULF-FACING COASTLINE WEST OF SARGENT...5 TO 8 FEET

SHORELINE OF MATAGORDA BAY...5 TO 8 FEET

GULF-FACING COASTLINE SARGENT TO HIGH ISLAND
INCLUDING GALVESTON ISLAND......12 TO 16 FEET

SHORELINE OF GALVESTON BAY...15 TO 22 FEET

LIFE THREATENING INUNDATION LIKELY!

ALL NEIGHBORHOODS...AND POSSIBLY ENTIRE COASTAL COMMUNITIES...
WILL BE INUNDATED DURING THE PERIOD OF PEAK STORM TIDE. PERSONS
NOT HEEDING EVACUATION ORDERS IN SINGLE FAMILY ONE OR TWO STORY
HOMES WILL FACE CERTAIN DEATH. MANY RESIDENCES OF AVERAGE
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTLY ON THE COAST WILL BE DESTROYED. WIDESPREAD
AND DEVASTATING PERSONAL PROPERTY DAMAGE IS LIKELY ELSEWHERE.

http://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=hgx&wwa=hurricane%20warning

the National Weather Service.

It would seem that the main stream media would be concentrating more on this storm. I realize politics is important but this information should be broadcast as the lead story.

My dad lives in North Carolina, for most of his life on the coast or on one of the islands.

He has always refused to evacuate for anything smaller than a Category 4. He's only been in serious trouble during Isabel, and that was because he was living in a first-floor apartment on the beach. He had already gotten permission from his landlord to go up into the higher levels if it flooded, so he did so.

He has been okay, but I wouldn't recommend it for most.

Take care of yourself.

Please leave. If not for yourself, for your friends and family, who are no doubt worried.

And take a friend or two or three with you.

Please.

You are not doing them any favor by staying.

They count on you to keep them alive...what the hell are you doing?

Because you "want to see it"?

Get them the fuck out of there.

...because I'm not the only one here. And others can't leave.

Look, as far as pets are concerned, I am aware of the risks. And I don't take them lightly. But a dog this size in a 6 hour log jam in my 1995 Honda Accord is a recipe for heat stroke. And I won't either leave the cats to die either in the water or in that car, either by heat or by large dog.

you wanted to see it:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=389&topic_id=3978948&mesg_id=3979042

Can't you get those animals inland a few miles somewhere? Friends maybe?

And to a certain degree it's true. But really only if it were just me. Then that would be the main reason--selfishness.

There are other reasons, though. Trust me. Just being a bit of a snark. I'm on wine glass three here, and after the day I had, I'm looking for a chuckle, even if it's at my own expense.

I'll tone that bravado back a bit. I think it's derailing the thread, and that's my fault.

I thought they had buses for special needs people? Btw, wave at Anderson Cooper for me! :)

...no more busses allowed to leave.

Don't think that just because the offer was there up until this evening, that these people all took them up on it. The people we talked to today were scared to death--scared of everything they have worked for being blown away, or looted. They've worked their entire lives to build what they have here, and will be damned if they are going to lose it now. They'll stay. Fools, all of them. But still people.

That doesn't make sense.

My hometown of Orange got a decent amount of damage out of Rita and is one of the counties that has been ordered to undergo a mandatory evacuation today. For the folks in Orange and Jefferson counties, it seems that the traffic congestion hasn't been nearly as horrible in evacuating as it was during Rita, but I am not sure what those leaving from Harris and other areas are experiencing. I'm in Huntsville finishing my last semester of grad school and "riding it out" (I mean that in kind of a joking way, as it seems doubtful that Huntsville will get more than a lot of wind and maybe power outages; at least, that's what they got out of Rita.) but my family and friends from Orange have reported to me and are heading to various locations north or west.

I can understand the mix of emotions that you are feeling. I remember wanting to ride out Rita a few years ago; I'm glad I decided not to b/c I would have had to deal with the power outages, but there would definitely have been something fascinating about watching what was going down around me. It sounds to me like you are doing a good thing being there to help out others in need in your town who didn't leave. I wish you luck and safety.

Rita was no fun, and while I got "lucky" then, that "luck" meant hardship for lots more East of me. As weird as it sounds, I really hope that those models don't continue their gradual trend to the right. Those people have had enough. We are the best protected city on the Gulf--if it makes landfall here, better for them, and we will survive where they may not.

They've all evacuated. They didn't stay through Rita either.

I am glad to hear that your folks made it out of there. All of my family members from the "Golden Triangle" got out, too. A few who live in the Kirbyville/Newton area stayed behind, and I have my fingers crossed that the hurricane will, for the most part at least, bypass them.

You could ask one of your neighbors to watch the kittens? Can someone else evac with them? Take the dog and go. I love my animals, but I am not going to die for them. Please take a good look at this site: www.wunderground.com and the computer models. That path is certain. And so is death.

But never in stone. Travelling Southwest is not advised by any officials at this time. North only. And trust me, on Tuesday when others were warning friends in Corpus, I was watching the models and shaking my fist at our Mayor for not evacuating here. I'm weird in one thing, and it's no knock on you or to build me up--I'd die for my Sammy. But she won't die tomorrow and neither will I.

Or whichever way they say is best, BUT GO. You and Sammy's lives aren't set in stone either. Please go.

Be careful and I hope you get through it OK. Keep us posted. :hug:

And thanks, we'll be fine. It's those strolling down the beach that are worrying me.

and maybe another time we can talk about the wisdom of it.

From personal experience I understand what you are saying and doing. Been there and done that....different circumstances, different times.

It's not often that we have the opportunity to both witness history and truly experience and challenge our own mortaliy.

I do understand where you're coming from and won't challenge it.

Just know that I and many others will be hoping that the outcome of your decision will be as fortunate as my own and that you'll be able to pull through with the rest of your "community"

:hi:

You'll be ok!

Long laundry list of chores. Number one on the list--finish the laundry, all of it. Just in case the water can't be used.

Sam gets a ride down the beach, and the partner gets to see the waves come in. There is a bar open on the Seawall I'll take him to for a cocktail. He gets one more night out.

Tomorrow, more boarding. I'll let everyone know how it goes. I will keep posting, for anyone curious. And for those worried, we do have plans to leave by 2pm if it looks really bad. Don't worry.

Later.

From what I've been reading this is no ordinary hurricane. Even though it's only rated a 2 right now (geeez only a 2 :eyes:) the energy of this storm could be closer to a katrina.

Be aware and be smart:hi:

You can't do anything for them if you are dead. And unfortunately, that is what many of the warnings in Galveston predict. Stay safe.

I sincerely hope you have evacuated by now. The roads are closing fast.

11:11 can help or harm...there is no middle ground.

Just pack up your things and go. Please.

This may be your last night if you don't!

Are you stupid or what?

I seriously think that anyone who stayed IN GALVESTON at this time is either stupid or crazy. I don't think law enforcement need to look after these IDIOTS. If you have the means to leave, PLEASE DO SO.

DID YOU NOT LEARN ANYTHING FROM KATRINA? GET THE HELL OUT NOW!!!!!!

Fucking idiots. I hope you don't die but I don't think law enforcement needs to rescue you fools.

As long as you are aware - you'll be fine

I respect the hell out of your motives - can't say I'd be able to do the same.

Do good and stay safe. :hug:

with your life. I'd rather you still live to keep fighting another day than risk your death just to see a hurricane up close. In case you didn't realize, Galveston was hit by a hurricane before. It's kinda why Galveston, which used to be the NYC of Texas isn't anymore. Hence all the dire warnings of CERTAIN DEATH.

SO GODDAMMIT, BE CAREFUL!

Try to sleep. You'll need all the energy you've got for the storm and whatever it brings. I'm hoping it weakens before it hits landfall.

Might be helpful for you.

http://www.nola.com/mystorm/index.ssf/2008/09/riding_it_out.html

On their list of things to have, the one that showed up the biggest when I read it were these:

Tons of cigarettes.
Wine.
Valium to take the edge off when the winds start screaming (barely takes the edge off).

Here's hoping you'll be able to share a virtual glass of wine with us in a week or so.

Noble yes, for a reason to stay, but unless you are moving them up to wherever you are that you suspect will keep you safe, and they're on the ground floor(s), they're as good as dead anyway, according to the warnings, so nothing is accomplished by "hanging around to help". If you can't move them to a safe place, boarding up their windows probably won't help when the 20 ft storm surge comes a-knockin'.

But hey, it's your life. We hope to see a post here on late Saturday or Sunday (assuming you even have a cable or phone connection that works), but there's a point where you just gotta believe that SOMETIMES the government might be right. B*sh may screw with the EPA or scientists on global warming but to my knowledge he hasn't fooled with changing out the staff at the NWS (assuming he could, don't know).

This is what the NWS does for a living. If they say "get your ass out or you're dead" then I'd not be waiting until 2 p.m. If you can wait until 2 p.m., why not just get out now? The NWS is not known for unnecessary fearmongering. I'd grab some papers and go. Fuck doing the laundry.

And Ike is still far away from you.

Even though I do not know you, I worried about you last night and when I heard the above news this morning. Please be safe. :hug:

But if you have children or other family members that are staying because you won't go, that is downright reckless, irresponsible and just beyond understanding.

unbelievable...the water is covering all the streets, they are impassable, and the surge has not even hit..this is a doozy..i cannot imagine what galveston will look like tomorrow morning..

They have two dozen people on their roofs already and the coast guard trying to get them. IDIOTS.
I'll never understand why..........................

already and the storm is still 15 hours away at least.. I live in Houston and we are sheltering in place, but the storm surge is going to flood the island, and they have said life or death....


My thoughts and best wishes are with you, although I think you should leave the island now.... :hug:

because you're a damn fool.

And the Island is flooding now.

http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/feature?section=news/local&id=6102015

all those houses will be gone by tomorrow. Amazing.

Houston are riding it out too, but I think you're taking even more of a risk. Hang in there!

Your heart's in the right place but you won't be able to help anyone if you don't make it.

Good luck.

on edit:. Bouy 20 miles away from Galveston is measuring 20 foot waves. Hurricane is still 200 miles away.
Seawall is only 17 feet high.

not good

I live in South Florida, where we have storms all the time. But once I know a massive cat 3 storm is making landfall within 20 miles of me I consistently GTFO. There is no excuse for putting your life on the line. YOU LIVE ON A BARRIER ISLAND.

Anyways, if theres still a way to get out then do it now. If not, I pray for you.

As an update, we are packing up now. Getting ready to head North.

Taking partner to parents house in Katy. I'll probably head to Little Rock to stay with my brother afterwards.

Doubt I'll be reporting for work on Monday. As a matter of fact, as of right now I imagine I'm unemployed.

Will post an update from laptop when settled.

Thanks again everyone.

Jeffy

Wishing you the best, glad you are getting out.

At least it sounds like traffic getting out is light.

Good luck to you and yours!

i came late to this thread and right after i'd been reading up on ike and i literally began to cry when i ready your OP. i'll be looking for news from you as this plays out. SO glad you're doing the right thing.

i came late to this thread and right after i'd been reading up on ike and i literally began to cry when i read your OP. i'll be looking for news from you as this plays out. SO glad you're doing the right thing.

I'll be looking for your update once you get settled.

You remind me of a friend of a man I met in New Orleans. He stayed in his house, was very fit, athletic, well prepared. Food, water, AXE to chop his way through ceiling when he got trapped. He was found drowned with a life vest on in his neighborhood in Chalmette. Friend was pissed, said there was no reason for him to have drowned being fit, prepared, life vested. Figures perhaps his clothing got caught on something as the water rose and he got pulled under.

Good luck.

He doesn't expect to see his house again.

I hope you've reconsidered and have gotten the fuck out of there.

Surfside is completely underwater...rescuers say its just about too late to get anyone out now, and they took SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS from the people who refused to leave...
http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/feature?section=news/local&id=6102015

and the surge hasnt even hit yet

leave when he feels the time is right. I think he's out of time. His wife left. I hope she sees him again.

one.

Sorry for the caps, its hard to pick up the post that he made.

Lets move on

I wish you the best of luck Sir,and will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers throughout the next few days. I realize the urgency some of you have in encouraging him to leave, but seriously, if the worst case scenario were to happen, do you think he truly wants to be called a "fool" and "fucking idiot" like most of you have done on here. Its a personal choice. Living in Mobile, I have both fled and been stuck in traffic for 16 hours and I have ridden the storm out and sustained minimal damage. I find it extremely admirable that you have sacrificed your safety to ensure that of others. They will no doubt need your help within the next 48 hours. So please, do your best to stay safe and if possible keep us informed as to what is goin on.

Like you, I am also a bit of an adventurist. I've told myself one day I'm gonna construct some sort of clear waterproof enclose, anchor it in the ground and ride out a cat 5 while filming the entire thing. But this won't happen anytime soon, so I've got the surfboard ready and after class today will be heading down to Gulf Shores to catch some waves.

I'm sure that will be considered "foolish" to some and no, I don't have a death wish, only a great love and respect for mother nature and the adrenalin rush she provides on those certain moments.

<<<<<<Fucking Idiot

There, I'll save you all the hassle of calling me that as well. I swear I thought I've stumbled into Freeperland with some of the posts in this thread.

leave. Maybe you should watch this and see why so many here were concerned and encouraging him to leave. http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/feature?section=news/local&id=6102015

And Yes I did see that he made the decision to leave after I made my post. Probably the right decision, but I would have just as much respect for him had he stayed.

And I'm also very well aware of the destruction hurricanes cause, don't need to watch a live feed to prove that to me.

And parts of Galveston is already underwater now without the storm surge hitting yet. Doesn't make a whole lot of sense to stay, when the option to leave is still available.

That option is closing fast with I-45 quickly being covered with water.

Respect won't do anyone any good if they die in this hurricane, because they chose to stay, will it?

"I swear I thought I've stumbled into Freeperland with some of the posts in this thread."

Yet you seem to ignore the vast majority of posters who appear to wish him only safety.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EBEbCyP1Mw

Anyone who is even mildly entertaining 'riding out a hurricane' is taking their own
life in their hands. I never truly understood a "storm surge" until I saw this video.

The storm surge will kill you. It will definitely flood homes in Galveston. It's
estimated that the storm surge will be upward of 22 feet, and the highest point
in Galveston is around 20 feet. That means your home will be submerged, probably
over the roof.

That means, there will be a roaring ocean--complete with large, crashing waves--in your
living room! Campers, cars and other large pieces of debris will crash into houses.

If you have a boat...so what? The waves and the wind will knock you over--if the cars,
streets signs, trees and cars in water--don't crash into you and kill you. You worry
about the stress on the dog, if he's in the car. What about the stress he will experience
when the water begins coming in your house? First, on the first floor, and then when
you're forced to either get in your boat or go up to the second floor to avoid drowning.

When you realize that going on the second floor, will leave you trapped--you'll try to
get to that boat--with a swirling, debris-filled ocean roaring around you. How easy will
that be? The dog will be more upset and terrified in this scenario, than in the car. And
you actually think that you can carry a box of kittens, your dog and get yourself into
your boat--which is outside in the middle of 120 mph winds, with giant waves crashing
all around you?

Please, please watch this video!! Watch how the water comes up and swallows everything
around it--turning land into a roaring ocean with giant waves. Take note of the Interstate and the tall pillars
holding up the Interstate, which are visible at first--then completely submerged into the water as
the hurricane comes in.

I'm a storm chaser and an adrenaline junkie too. But c'mon! It is not smart to stay.

Please watch this video--and be open to getting the hell out! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EBEbCyP1Mw

This was posted by NOAA early yesterday -

GALVESTON COUNTY:

A MANDATORY EVACUATION HAS BEEN ORDERED FOR ALL OF GALVESTON
ISLAND. THIS ORDER GOES INTO EFFECT AT NOON TODAY.

A MANDATORY EVACUATION IS IN EFFECT FOR BOLIVAR PENINSULA...
OMEGA BAY...SAN LEON...BACLIFF...FREDDIESVILLE...TIKI ISLAND...
KEMAH...AND CLEAR LAKE SHORES. THE MANDATORY EVACUATION OF CLEAR
LAKE SHORES BEGINS AT 2 PM.

SPECIAL NEEDS EVACUATION IS ALSO TAKING PLACE.

BUSES ARE AVAILABLE FOR FOR CITIZENS THAT NEED ASSISTANCE WITH
EVACUATIONS. BUSES ARE AVAILABLE AT THE FOLLOWING PICKUP POINTS:

BACLIFF COMMUNITY CENTER: 4500 10TH STREET...BACLIFF...77518
DICKINSON COMMUNITY CENTER: 2417 HWY 3...DICKINSON...77539
HITCHCOCK LIBRARY...8005 BARRY AVENUE...HITCHCOCK...77563
CRYSTAL BEACH ANNEX...941 NOBLE CARL DRIVE...CRYSTAL BEACH...77650

CITIZENS SHOULD ALSO CONSIDER EVACUATING IF THEY LIVE IN AREAS
SUBJECT TO FLOODING OR IN MOBILE HOMES. IF YOU DECIDE TO
EVACUATE...PLEASE REMEMBER TO PACK YOUR DISASTER KIT AND
IMPORTANT PAPERS.

THE GALVESTON-BOLIVAR FERRY WILL CEASE OPERATIONS AT 11 PM
TONIGHT.

SCHOOL CLOSINGS...THE FOLLOWING SCHOOL DISTRICTS WILL BE CLOSED
THROUGH FRIDAY...HIGH ISLAND...HITCHCOCK...SANTA FE...CLEAR
CREEK...FRIENDSWOOD...GALVESTON AND DICKINSON. THE FOLLOWING
DISTRICTS WILL BE CLOSED ON FRIDAY...LA MARQUE AND TEXAS CITY.

THE BOLIVAR S.U.D. HAS INDICATED THEY WILL CEASE WATER SERVICE TO
THE PENINSULA AT 5 PM TODAY.

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MEDICAL BRANCH HOSPITAL IN GALVESTON MAY
BEGIN A COMPLETE EVACUATION OF THE HOSPITAL FACILITIES THIS
MORNING. THE EMERGENCY ROOM WILL STAY OPEN.

There were 110 people who died in the evacuation I think. And the roads were absolutely jammed. I think they did a much better job of evacuation this time.

says a meteoroligist on live feed just now

http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/feature?section=news/local&id=6102015

for fear of being arrested.

:hug:

It may seem like a simple matter to some - there is a storm coming, just "get out."

Many people do not have the resources to whip out a credit card, book a motel room hundreds of miles away and hit the road. They may not have a car, may have no money, may have no one to help. Many people are already hanging on by a thread, may be alone, handicapped, confused, frighthened, mistrustful of the authorities - and with good reason. We know from Katrina that the authorities can be unreliable or even hostile.

For some, evacuating could be as life threatening as the storm. For some the "solutions" or "advice" being given are of no value or carry with them risks that need to be considered.

For some it could be a choice between certain hardship, suffering and danger if they leave, and possible risk if they stay.

We have to do something about this. :hug:

A friend of mine packed up the kids and critters and got out last night, staying in a hotel in Dallas they can afford, with a kitchenette etc. They will be OK. That is all very good, but it is just out of reach for some - for many, for far too many.

The problem is underestimated by so many people.

There are many people who do not trust what the authorities say, and with good reason. There are many people who are alone, confused and frightened.

One example you mention - immigrants are in a tough spot in these situations. Leaving could almost certainly lead to abuse, arrest and detention.

For people without money, credit cards, cars, where do you go, what do you do? There is a risk in staying, but hardship, suffering and danger are certain if you leave. Do you want to be herded onto some bus by the police, taken who knows where for who knows how long? Look at how refugees of Katrina were treated - like criminals.

We saw after Katrina that not only were the authorities not helpful, they were hostile and dangerous.

Some would rather take their chances even if it means dying with dignity or having to struggle with real dangers than they would take the advice or "help" of government and the media - who already sold them down the river along time ago - and suffer certain humiliation, abuse and hardship.

A tsunami is a wall of water than you can run from.

A storm surge is even more deadly, because it is not a wall--it is a steady rise of
water that rises slowly and engulfs all buildings, homes and structures on the ground until
there is nothing to hold onto and nowhere to go.

If you are in your house, and the storm surge comes--at first, water begins seeping in your house.
Then, five minute later, the water is six inches deeper--with waves moving more and more water into
your house. Ten minutes later, the water is six inches deeper.

Within a matter of 45 minutes, your house has been taken over--not just by water--but by a swirling,
powerful ocean that is difficult to walk in.

A storm surge is a gradual--but a quick--rise in waters. That's why people were trapped in their
rafters during Katrina. The water slowly increased. People erroneously thought that they could
keep moving to higher ground, in their homes. Unfortunately, the water kept rising a few inches
and never stopped--and it topped those houses.

By the time you realize you need to get out--you can't. You're trapped.

Also--as the video shows--this isn't just standing water that comes in. It's the frickin ocean. Giant
waves crash into your home. The water is very violent, plus you've got debris floating in it--trees,
street signs--and as the water rises--cars and other heavy objects. Then, you've got 120 mph winds.

It's a recipe for death.

Even if you have a boat--it's unlikely you can survive. You'll be knocked into other houses and buildings
and debris will plow into you.

If you can't watch the entire 10 minute video--start watching at about 6:50. You'll see what
the storm surge is.

Again, it's not just a nice pool of water in your home.

It's a violent ocean! And it keeps rising and rising...and it's full of debris.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EBEbCyP1Mw

Looks like the storm isn't intensifying to the extent that had been feared over the last few days.

And to the poster upthread that wondered about the story regarding the late call for evac and then pasting the alert from yesterday--please understand that that alert was released around 12 Noon. That's noon on Thursday.

Galveston's mayor was on television Wednesday at 6pm telling islanders to voluntarily evacuate, but advising that people board up and ride it out. WEDNESDAY EVENING!

She and the city manager sat there and said, even as the models were turning toward the island, that the storm was going to Corpus Christi and we'd only get some wind.

Please understand that I'm not trying to get too heavy handed on this, but right now I'm a little mad, and I have to go anyway. We are about to lose everything.

Last post probably until this evening or tomorrow sometime, depending on where I end up.

Jeffy

So glad you're leaving!

I don't understand what in the hell the Galveston mayor is doing, but it's criminal!

Everything being reported on the news directly contradicts what she has said. Every report
I've heard on the news--from national weather experts, to local Galveston police--say get
the hell out or you die.

Who is this witch? I hope there is video of her saying this. It's completely appalling.

The storm surge is supposed to be around 22-24 feet. That's 22-24 feet of roaring, violent
ocean engulfing Galveston. The highest point in Galveston is 20 feet.

You don't have to be a math major to figure our that anyone who stays stands a good chance of
dying, if the storm is as bad as predicted.

http://www.cityofgalveston.org/city_council/thomas.cfm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lyda_Ann_Thomas

Can't use her party in this one.

like my dad. "I'm not chicken. I don't run from hurricanes." :eyes:

We rode out Hurricane Allen, & to this day, I am stunned that more people didn't get killed. It did flood, though & 281 to San Antonio was under water in 2 places & impassable for weeks after.


Me? I'm all "Oh hell no, I'm not going through that again." When Brett jumped from a 2 to a 4 in under TWO HOURS :wow: , I packed up my car, threw the cats in their carriers, & headed for San Antonio, listening to the cats complain for 5 hours because everyone else in Corpus had the same idea.
dg

:hug: :hug:

Please do check in whenever you can.

I'm glad you and your partner decided to leave. I hope it doesn't get as bad as they say it will. I can't believe it's already flooding. :scared:

Most people wouldn't consider me a religious person, but you were in my prayers last night.

most people who know me don't consider me a religious person, but I do say prayers for people I worry about.

I wish you the best of luck. I understand how you feel about losing everything. But if you keep your life you can always start over again.

My daughter often says "everything happens for a reason". Perhaps you will find a good future awaiting you.

Be safe, take care of the animals and yourself. I hope you can rebuild your life quickly after the storm. Post an update when you can.

Just please please please be careful and check in here as soon as humanly possible. We are concerned.

they left like 10 minutes ago.

MSNBC is showing the storm surge, all ready happening in Galveston, with water coming in
the first floors of houses---and the storm is still 180 miles from Galveston.

So glad he is out!

And here's hoping that ALL our coastal TX members have done the same thing!

and I've been worried about him ever since.

I've been worried all morning until I read that he left.

I don't even know the guy, but after his posts about his dog, the kittens, and the elderly neighbors, I've been checking the storm's progress, very concerned.

I prefer the old days, when you read about people in the paper, but they didn't feel like friends....

i've just been reading about Ike and, and...i wish you would leave, i think it will be safer for you elsewhere. best wishes for your continued good health under all circumstances!

I was worried when I turned my computer off last night.

Good luck to you! Let us know how you are when all of that is over.

:hi:

AP:

"White waves as tall as 15 feet were already crashing over Galveston's seawall. It was enough to scare away Tony Munoz and his wife, Jennifer, who went down to the water to take pictures, then decided that riding out the storm wasn't a good idea after all.

'We started seeing water come up on the streets, then we saw this. We just loaded up everything, got the pets, we're leaving,' Tony Munoz, 33, said. 'I've been through storms before but this is different.'"

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080912/ap_on_re_us/ike

I'm relieved you're leaving--and so sorry that you have to endure this, and that you'll have to live in limbo, not knowing what's happening to your home and possessions (and sure, most things are just things, but some possessions are special), for who knows how long until you can get back to see what damage has been done to your house and to your neighbors'.

It's obvious from your concern about your neighbors (and your dog!) that you are a prince among men... not that anybody should have to go through this, but it's just extra unfair that this should happen to you.

Bless your heart (and Sammy's)... we will ALL be thinking about you. Good luck.

:grouphug:

I wish your partner would leave. Please stay in touch to the degree that you can and let us know how you're doing. :grouphug:

Be safe.

i have read much about the Galveston Hurricane of 1900...and i worry for you all.

http://www.woai.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=52592d7c-3748-4ac1-b694-a1741a24ed51&rss=68

That gave at least 36 hours time for those to get out of there, who wanted to. :shrug:

and woke up to find it was too late. The water was already too high.

:worries:

take care of yourself and the ones you love. Get out of harm's way and be smart. I know the frustration with bad leadership and planning. You will make it through this Jeffrey! We're pulling for you!

Jeffrey, I hope you and your partner made it to safety. Please post as soon as you can just to let us know you're 'landed'. Godspeed.

nt

Hope they stayed safe. I'm worried about the animals, too.

I hope he got out OK.