From an ABC News article at their website...

[soonertwister]

Thousands Urged to Flee Hurricane Isabel

Thousands of vacationers and residents were fleeing the Outer Banks Tuesday, but officials said traffic was moving smoothly. With the storm weakening, many residents appeared ready to stay put.

Forecasters said Isabel appeared to be on a course to hit Thursday on the North Carolina coast and move northward through eastern Virginia. Large swells and dangerous surf already were being felt along the coast.

The storm's maximum sustained wind had decreased to about 105 mph. More weakening was possible Tuesday but the storm could strengthen again before landfall, the National Hurricane Center said in Miami.

Isabel is the most serious hurricane to threaten the mid-Atlantic since Hurricane Floyd wreaked havoc on the East Coast in September 1999, causing 56 deaths.

On Hatteras Island, Margie and Joe Brecker screwed plywood sheets onto the door and window of their Christmas gift shop in Rodanthe, but left up the colored holiday lights. They planed to ignore the evacuation orders.

"It's easier to stay on the island," Margie Brecker said Tuesday. "That way, we are right here when it's time to clean up, and we're able to help others."

[alicia-w]

You have to wonder about people like that, dont you? I mean, if a wall of fire was coming your way and expected to consume your town in two days, are you gonna stand in your driveway with a garden hose? Come on! I cant help but recall the stories of folks in Biloxi who KNEW this monster storm (Camille) was coming but decided to ride it out in a hurricane party. All that's left of where they were is the foundation of the building. Some folks just think they're immune to all this or just plain invincible. Short of dragging them out kicking and screaming, there's not much you can do. Of course, I'LL be the one screaming when they decide to file for emergency assistance money or other federal funds to rebuild. Or when our insurance goes through the outer atmosphere because of all the claims filed...........(just venting. sorry) :lol:

[Mattie]

Would love to see the progression of that couple should it be a direct hit on the Outer Banks and still hear them say "It is easier to stay . . ."

Best wishes to them.

[janswizard]

That must be the same two people on the Outer Banks who were just interviewed on CNN - the guy said they were told to leave but since the storm intensity is way down, he doesn't expect anything to happen. Have to say, though, the wife seemed more concerned but was just doing what her husband wanted.

[alicia-w]

i have to admit that i think i would say, "honey, you wanna stay, you go right ahead and you call me when it's over. i'll be right here to help you clean this little ole mess up"

[Mattie]

Or honey - a freight train is coming - do you think if we park the car right here in front of it, we should be safe, huh? Way too much.