UPDATE: 1:20am Landfall just south of St. Marks. Also, Tallahassee getting pounded.
As anticipated Hurricane Hermine has strengthened a bit (now 80mph) as it closes in on the Florida bend. Anticipated to skirt Apalachicola and move inland through the bend toward Tallahassee. The storm surge is the immediate cause for concern in the coastal areas, however the inland effects can be secondarily problematic.

This potential impact zone was spared from the horrific 2004 season (Charley, Frances, Ivan, Jeanne), and 2005 (Wilma); which means the trees (mostly oaks) are decades without severe storm impact. For Tallahassee, and surrounding areas, the wind damage could be considerable and power outages are almost guaranteed. (more…)