Getting ready for hurricane Irene

Yeah I live in Newport News VA we just moved here in Jan. 2011, my husbands in the military and he's helping tape down and box stuff, and get ready for the hurricane at the air force base, I think wind is already blowing, I think it's suppose to happen Saturday, This is my first hurricane so I hope I won't get hurt, And we've lived in Japan too so there are a lot of earthquakes so I was used to this one.

I will say a prayer for you. That is utterly terrible. I suppose it’s even worse because you are actually expecting it and waiting on it rather than it just hitting all of a sudden etc. because I know obviously it will be great to be prepared, but just waiting on something like that would drive everyones nerves to distraction! I’m from the UK and the worst thing we have experienced is a really bad storm, like torrential rain.. and snow that was like 4 feet deep, maybe more. But that’s it.. and that’s the worst I’ve ever seen in 24 years, so I cannot even begin to comprehend what it must be like for people in other countries. I wish you all the best!

I'm in southern Maine and am going to be on the northeast and east side of this thing when it hits, the worst sides to be on. We are looking at sustained winds of about 40 miles an hour beginning around 4 o clock Sunday after noon, and increasing to about a sustained 70- 80 miles per hour later in the evening and over night. We are right on the outer edge of the landfall tornado zone, but not enough to make me too worried about that. Tons of rain expected of course, but the house sit up on a hill and even though we live almost right next to a small river, I don't think flooding is going to be too big a problem. My lady and I aren't too terribly worried, but we are taking it seriously. We have extra batteries for the flashlight and radio, are going to be storing up a few days worth of water and are going to the store tomorrow to get a few days worth of food that doesn't require cooking (electric stove). I am going to spend Saturday putting up some things sitting out side (and convincing the neighbor to do the same). It's been a few years since we had a full blown hurricane, up close and personal, but it isn't my first.

Yes, people living along the east coast, Carolinas to the north, are warned to be prepared and have the essential things stocked during the hurricane Irene time. I saw that on the TV. Pretty scary. Yeah, we all pray for the safety of the residents in the region.

I honestly cannot imagine what you are going through but I can certainly guess it. I've been keeping tabs on Hurricane Irene, and each time I think of the massive size I cringe. To think of everyone having to evacuate and to leave all of their belongings, sometimes even their pets, is heart breaking. All the heavy winds, the constant and blinding downpour of the rain.. Thinking about everyone who has to go through it... All I can say is how brave the lower east is. The most we get up here are terrible thunderstorms, blizzards, few earthquakes far and few in between, and tornados. And thankfully many tornados have passed us over. Concerning the earthquake, though I am one state away from you, I felt it. Honestly.. I thought my dog was making the house shake. He's a big and heavy brute who makes the house shake when he's scratching or running through the house. It is no wonder he looked at me funny when I yelled at him from my bed while I was trying to sleep. Even if we don't know each other, you're in my thoughts. I admire your bravery at facing this storm enough to prepare for whatever is necessary. I've asked God that the storm will circle around and not have a direct impact. Even if I am told no, I will hope that the storm will be weak. But even if not, it is my hope you and your family will be safe. We can only hope. Keep us updated if you can.

We live in Europe and we have never had a hurricane, now and than some minor earthquakes... We are following the news and will be praying for you and all people in your area. Stay strong in the Word of God and know that Jesus is always with you. GOD be with you all!

Oh dear..you really have some challenges, haven't you. I am pleased to see you have faith as that is what always strengthens me. I will keep you and yours in my prayers that you are ok through all this. God Bless..