Ike Ripping Up Cuba

After ripping up Cuba early this week, the forecast models suggest Hurricane Ike will move into the Gulf of Mexico, picking up strength, but slowing down in forward movement, until by next Saturday, the storm will be virtually parked south of Louisiana. Then, a break will happen.

NOGAPS suggests the storm will move directly north and plunge into Louisiana, but GFS suggests the storm will head ENE, cross the coast at Pensacola, FL, and move into Georgia.

Parking such a large storm in the oil platform region of the Gulf will be bad for oil prices. The break in direction, possibly bringing the storm back towards Florida, may be worrisome for Tampa.

As always, keep an eye on this storm.