I was stationed at Kessler A.F.B., Biloxi, MS. I spent the night in a
tech school building. It was cinder block two story with no windows except
in the first floor doors. The south-facing wall on the 2nd floor had double
pushbar doors where large heavy equipment was brought in. Both doors had
been opened and towels(?) held around the doors while forced shut. The rain
still came through. Within a foot or so of the doors you stood no chance to
light a match. The sound through the ventilation was amazing. It was like a
train. Of course it varied from minute to minute, but it was overwhelming.
Often it would require shouting just to converse.
As I recall when the local radio station went off the air the wind was a
sustained 120mph on the base. This radio station was on the first floor of a
motel located on the beach side of the two-lane highway running along the
Gulf. The entire first floor, except for the building supports, was wiped
clean. Yes, the building did stand, but it was in the minority.
After being allowed to leave my wife & I drove to Gulfport some 50(?)
miles to the west. The inside lane of afore mentioned highway was passable
although barely in spots. Gulfport looked like it was a war zone. Many
buildings were just shells. It just took our breath away.
While traveling to & from Biloxi it was easy to see where houses we
some foundations or parts thereof were visible. It looked like a giant angry
hand swiped the area. One & two story buildings didn't stand a chance.
One other thing I remember. Along the beach were dead animals: cows,
horses. I have no idea where they came from. Hopefully someone can supply
the answer.
It was a horrible thing to have happened. As a weather person, though,
I was glad to have experienced it.

Regards,
Wayne Roop
Cooperative Weather Observer, N.W.S.
Cape May 2NW, NJ(28-1351-3)

"Luke Outtavindo" wrote in message
.. .
Anybody have any personal stories of this incredible storm?