[marlinguy]

I probably know hurricanes as well, maybe better, than most people here. Hurricanes when they move inland start to lose their strength (derived from warm ocean water) almost immediately. However, the real danger inland are tornadoes spun off from the storm as it moves forward. As almost all know there is little warning and almost no protection from a strong tornado. These aren't the tornadoes you see in "tornado alley" that come marching across the plains. Rather they are intermittent, generally of short duration, and unpredictable. They most powerful can and have damaged roofs, broken windows with flying debris and usually significant water damage since hurricanes are also major rain events. So, do you have to run? My opinion is no but it's a personal decision. Are there evacuations in Central Florida? None that I can ever remember, they are for low lying coastal areas that will flood in a storm surge, ie the dome of water pushed forward and in front of the core of the storm. I think the best advice is IF a storm passes across Central Florida, 1. You will have plenty of info on the storm track. 2. Police the area, your neighbors also if they are away, and make sure loose items, planters, etc are put away. Flying objects will do much damage. 3. Stay indoors until the storm has passed. 4. Stock up on food that doesn't require refrigeration. Batteries, candles, gas for the car. If power is lost it could be days before it is restored. Other than that,,have a nice day!