The 13th named tropical storm of 2016 has been named Matthew and by now has already caused much destruction in the Caribbean and now it's headed our way. The timing, size and path of this storm are very much more of a threat than we have had to deal with up til now. As the projected path of the storm is updated it becomes clear that Florida's east coast will be sideswiped for nearly it's entire eastern coast and may even be subject to a follow on hit if the storm rebounds and curls its way back. Mandatory evacuations have been ordered in Florida and nearby Georgia.
The marina has helped to do storm tie ups by putting additional docking lines out and tying boats to each other in addition to extra lines where needed to the dock. We've done what we can to stow all loose objects and furniture anywhere on the outside inside. Finishing after dark on the night before the storms expected arrival a few of us celebrated a dockmates birthday and had an impromptu hurricane party. Most of the liveaboards will move to the marina's clubhouse tomorrow with sleeping bags, flashlights, etc. to ride out the storm (and avoid the evacuation traffic jams).
Oct 7. On the drive back to Atlanta convoys of utility trucks are heading south. All of the rest areas along the interstate are packed with them and RV's waiting on the edge of the impact area.
Oct 8. Today we heard from the marina and got an "All Clear". The preliminary assessment is that Happy Happy has pulled thru this with no obvious major damage. We'll be making our way back soon to confirm. Whew!