The short answer is that if people in your area made the mistake once with Charley's intensity, they will (sadly) make it again with the next storm that impacts that area (of any intensity). No matter how much NHC and others try to educate the public, the process is only successful for those that listen and learn - unfortunately, that is not everyone.

Regarding intensity, the Fujita tornado intensity scale is based on the extent of damage as the primary factor - and I personally think that this is a bit foolish. If a 250mph tornado hits a cornfield in Texas, does that make it an F0? The primary factor for tropical cyclone intensity is windspeed - doesn't matter what the condition of the corn is. A good example is Hurricane Bret in south Texas a few years ago.
Cheers,
ED