A rainmaker, or no?

**Edit: the 00Z HPC forecast still has us at 5" of rain for the event. My parents in N. Carolina are predicted to receive over 9" of rain. My only thought is too bad this isn't happening in Texas, where a generous soaking of rain would be very welcome.**

This morning's HPC forecast has us receiving between 5-6" of rain from Irene, while the 06Z GFS predicts about 3" of rain. Will be interesting to see what verifies - and of course, whatever falls is heavily dependant on the track that Irene takes. This morning's track forecasts have shifted slightly east from yesterday, keeping Irene and its strongest winds offshore of Maryland. At its closest approach, Irene gets to within 170 km (106 miles) of us. Will be interesting to see what comes up tomorrow - and whether we lose power for any appreciable length of time.