Ken, I have friends and family in that area too. I hope they are wrong and I have been telling everyone to stay in tune to the weather. I have a few nephews who bock and laugh at the idea of any major hurricane hitting New York and they are out partying with their friends instead of evacuating!
I believe it's because they have never experienced that kind of weather so they have doubt that it's possible. And secondly because they are young and feel they don't have to worry about such things.
I guess it's a good thing they're bachelors like their Uncle. I would hate for them to be irresponsible with children and families. Regardless I will still tell them to leave and get to safe ground. Let's hope it does blow over!