Weather Underground- 5:30p

….Wind impacts….
sustained tropical storm force winds of 39 to 73 mph are occurring
across the Florida Keys. Sustained category one hurricane force wind
gusts of 74 to 95 mph are possible across the Lower Keys from
Sugarloaf Key to Key West this evening. Category one hurricane force
winds gusts of 74 to 95 mph are occurring along the reef south of
the Lower and Middle Keys. Residents of the Florida Keys may receive
some roof damage to poorly constructed homes and businesses. A few
trees and power poles may be toppled as well. Mobile homes are not
safe. Power outages have occurred in many island communities. Power
will be out for an extended period of time.

… Marine impacts…
damage to piers and docks is likely this evening… and marinas may
be flooded. Small craft in unprotected anchorages will be torn from
moorings. Seas will be 15 to 20 feet beyond the reef tonight… with
seas of 25 to 30 feet expected near the center of Hurricane Rita.

I Lost Cappy on Yahoo msg at about 5:30p. I was able to reach him by phone with no problem.
I’m real surprised we were able to stay in touch thru MSG this far into the storm anyway. Internet usually Crashes early for less reason down there, the same with the cell phone service.

Last year the strongest winds they came across with no injuries or large property damage was about 84 miles per hour.
The consensus among the locals is this will be able the same and all will be O.k.