Gary Archibald, Weathercaster

Short and sweet – to the point…it’s as expected, really busy behind the scenes at NBC Weather Plus and MSNBC. I’m working both “sides” so-to-speak along with my diligent colleagues. It is indeed hectic but boy does the time fly.

The Saturday gang: Weathercaster Michelle Grossman, Weather Producers Mike & Rob and Weathercaster Gary Archibald.

Prep time this morning was jam-packed…with computer model overviews and analysis, getting vital input from meteorologists, producers, and other staff. Everyone is eager and determined to get the facts right – first and foremost, then to package it and present it to you - our viewers - in a fashion that informs and enlightens.

TRACKER: Follow Dean's Path

Dean is a big deal of course; already a deadly complex storm that has killed 3 people…the first death was announced yesterday in the beautiful lush and mountainous island nation of St. Lucia. With Category 4 strength – winds in excess of 154 mph and bust topping 180, he is likely to leave a path of destruction as the projected path takes him towards the Gulf of Mexico (perhaps making landfall on the northern most tip of the Yucatan Peninsula Tuesday morning).

More devastating events (damage to persons and property) are likely with respect to Dean as he barrels ahead, in search of land and sea to consume and devour. However, next up, in its path, as of this posting, is Jamaica and then soon afterward the Cayman Islands. The busy bees that we are, we will continue to work at providing you with the latest and most accurate information about this Hurricane and its potential impact.

The long-range forecast predicts landfall in northeastern Mexico just south of Brownsville Texas – although a track to the north that would directly hit south-central Texas is a definite possibility as well. Time will tell. Nature is in control. We can only be messengers. But lets be informed ones. Stay with us for all of the details. Heed the warnings and watches. Stay safe!

GA