If I remember correctly, the last couple of hurricanes that have impacted us actually were reduced in power due to a "dry feed" (not remembering what the exact term is) that wrapped into the storm as it came over us. In other words, a band of dry air fed into the core of the storm as it came through, reducing the amount of rain that fell.

Am I remembering correctly? If so, is that just a lucky break for us, or does that normally happen as these tropical storms move over land?

The latest forecasts are now officially talking about Irene moving over the Chesapeake Bay at hurricane strength. Which means a significant storm surge up the bay, right?

FR REPLIES: The term is "dry slot." It refers to a flow of dry air from the west or southwest into the storm's center. It can sharply reduce the amount of rainfall, or, in winter, snowfall. And yes, it's a lucky break and not all that uncommon. As for Irene, a path directly up the bay or to the west of the bay is one most likely to create a dangerous storm surge in the Chesapeake. A path to the east of the bay would drive water south, out of the bay, and it would likely reduce the wind and rainfall on the Western Shore. For Ocean City, you want a track that keeps the storm's center off the coast.

Seem to recall that July '55 was dry until the last day of the mo., when we were hammered with a terrific T-storm. Then of course came August.

Hazel occurred during the school term which was unusual. Recall the nuns ushering us out for early dismissal.