Dr. Steve Lyons made an interesting statement last night on a hurricane special on TWC. He stated (not exact quote) that although warm sst temps are necessary for TC development atmospheric conditions are more vital. Noting there had been instances where storms had been over very warm waters but torn apart by shear, dry air, etc... or the flip side, storms that intensified over colder waters because the atmosphere was ripe for strenthening.

I mention this because I think Fay proves that point. Many have mentioned that the terrain of S. Fl will not disrupt a TC as most land masses will but the atmospheric enviroment that Fay finds itself in now is ripe for strengthening. Put that with minimum land friction, close proximity to two large bodie of water (GOM/Atlantic) and Fay finds herself in a rare situation.

She continues of this path for what, about 8 more hours and it could get real interesting.