If someone told me to write my personal info in a Ziploc bag and put it in my pocket ahead of a major hurricane… I’m not just evacuating, I’m leaving RIGHT NOW.

East Texas and west Louisiana folks: PLEASE heed the evacuation orders if you’re included in an evac zone! https://t.co/ta21rfYHRE

— Spinks Megginson (@rzweather) August 26, 2020

Hurricane Laura is not (yet) Category 5.

Cloud tops around the eye would need to be colder. It does have a ragged look that is typical of still intensifying hurricanes.

But, as with Michael (2008) that hit Florida panhandle, Laura could become Category 5 or close to it. pic.twitter.com/ZM7SWGh8zJ

— Ryan Maue (@RyanMaue) August 26, 2020

Map showing continental US Category 4-5 #hurricane landfalls. No Category 4-5 hurricanes have made landfall in extreme eastern Texas or southwest Louisiana on record (since 1851). #Laura #HurricaneLaura pic.twitter.com/jaRAq82DfB

— Philip Klotzbach (@philklotzbach) August 26, 2020

Hurricane Laura now has maximum winds of 125 mph. Further strengthening is expected, unfortunately, over the next several hours. Landfall likely tonight in east Texas & west Louisiana where “unsurvivable storm surge” possible per latest NHC messaging. pic.twitter.com/JlJd8Jflqd

— Spinks Megginson (@rzweather) August 26, 2020