The water N of the Yucatan are some of the warmest in the Gulf. Ernesto gets over that water, and that storm will be Cat 4 or 5 within 36 hours. If Ernesto gets to that water N of the Yucatan, there should be immediate mandatory evacuation orders all over the Gulf Coast.
If anyone close to the Gulf Coast sees Ernesto get to that breeding ground N of the Yucatan, don’t wait for the orders. Pack and LEAVE immediately.
We just can’t mess around waiting to see exactly where storms are coming ashore. The levees in New Orleans are not repaired. The pumps are running a minimal capacity. Strong tropical storm conditions could fill New Orleans with water all over again.
Consider this thread open to any discussion related to Ernesto.
Edited 8/27 for the change in Ernesto’ status