It's normal, Margie, to see that. It's somewhat a marker of the vertical wind shear as well.

Rabbit -- the eyewall replacement cycle is likely having the biggest impact upon the storm's intensity, but I wil lagree that shear and dry air entrainment may either slow the process or serve to keep a check on its intensity once the cycle completes (and all indications are that it is close to finishing).

Regarding 99L -- haven't had the chance to take a look at it to see what it may or may not do; I've been too busy with Emily and my own research work, sorry. Perhaps HF or one of the other mets. here can fill you all in on the invest in a couple-few hours.