As the official NHC track moves over your area..

[Nimbus]

And your local newspaper headlines start screaming Ivan! The general
public always seems to hurry around at the last minute making for a real
mess. Here in Florida many retailers have been out of stock for things
ranging from milk to gasoline. My local grocery store cancelled their
refrigerater truck shipment for fear they would lose electricity. I don't
mind drinking my coffee black but it is tough on the kids. There were
reports of violence at gasoline stations as lines got long and patience
grew thin. Lets face it, with almost every car along the gulf coast getting
a fill up this week that is really putting a strain on gasoline supplies. My only advise is START EARLY even for your regular shopping before the local headlines start yelling IVAN LANDFALL HERE! Bet there are others that
have similar stories to share.

[cflweather]

Seems to be getting better in Palm Bay as far as fresh food, water, batteries etc...but I still see gas lines. I was in Walmart could not believe the food they were throwing away.We are still without power. The other day I went to a laundromat to do some laundry cause it was pilng up, and the place was packed, a few scuffles and tempers flaring. Silly if ya ask me. I just wanted clean clothes. They say we won't power til the 18th

[wxwatcher2]

Agree with gas lines and shortages of essentials.
But it's nothing compared to after the storm.
No power makes for short tempers as people are hot, hungry and tired.

No matter how prepared you are, it still takes its toll on you physically and mentally.

My prayers to all who are in Ivans path on the Gulf Coast.

[Nimbus]

I was lucky on the west coast only had to sleep without AC for 3 nights. After Frances many people appeared a little more humble and despite being fatigued from the heat people generally pulled together and helped each other. Quite a contrast from the media frenzy prior to landfall.