Hugh
(Senior Storm Chaser)
Sun Aug 31 2008 07:38 PM
Re: conflicting signs

Cold cloud tops around the center, the closed eyewall, and the outflow improving (and certainly the pressure drop) are all BAD signs pointing to intensification. Dry air could prevent major intensification but I don't think it will be much of an issue unfortunately. The signs point toward a high-end Cat 3 or a Cat 4 as it approaches the coast. Hopefully it won't strengthen, but I don't think the dry air will win this battle.