I have been lurking over the last few days and have enjoyed the discussion and learned a great deal.

We are planning to evacuate if this monster heads towards New Orleans, though we have always stayed before. I am pregnant and concerned about the barometric pressure and pre-term labor. With the pressure being so low at the center of this thing, I figure the best course of action is load up me, the kids and the cats (hubby will join us later) and head north. But, I am curious. How dramatic is the difference in barometric pressure from the eyewall to the outer areas of the storm? I guess I am thinking of the difference of a direct hit vs. a glancing blow by the outer edges of the storm.

Thanks,

monique