The Speculist

Rita is not hurricane force up here in Shreveport, but it's still a remarkably powerful storm. I would guess that we've had 30-40 mph gusts for much of the morning.

We have family members up from Orange, Texas. Orange is just north of Port Arthur. They think their homes were wiped out.

Here's a video of the storm from my house in Shreveport.

UPDATE ON SUNDAY: What a difference a day makes. Our guests have learned that their homes are battered but standing. They are giddy with relief.

And what a beautiful day to get outside. I think I'll go do that.