Ike Stays to the East But Rain in the Forecast

From KRBC Chief Meteorologist Randy Turner ...

Ike is bigger in size than Katrina, creating waves rivaling what Carla did in 1961 and still strengthening as of this writing Thursday night. A catastrophic hit on the Galveston/Houston area is anticipated Friday night, with a path taking the storm north roughly up I-45 then turning right and out of Texas by Sunday.

What does Ike mean for us? We'll get some wind off Ike, should notice an increase in the wind Saturday into Sunday, from the northeast.

I think Ike provides us with a little moisture, moreso Sunday than Saturday. Keep in mind, we are on the west side of the storm, where less rain falls. But, with the counterclockwise spin of Ike, moisture may wrap around the top of the storm and come our way from the northeast.

But the main system to help produce rain here this weekend, and 1 to 2 inches are possible in the Big Country, is a cold front which will eventually work into our area Saturday night into Sunday, so plan on rain staying in our forecast through Sunday night.

Counties northwest of Abilene stand the best chance to see heavy rain while counties east of Abilene have a higher wind impact from Ike. The Dallas/Fort Worth area is under a Tropical Wind Advisory for wind speeds of 39-73mph this weekend in Big D, so caution if you are traveling in that direction.

Roads are likely going to be jammed east of our area, probably best to just stay at home this weekend and let Ike get out of the way.