In VA 50 mi. south of DC. Wind gusts have really picked up. Some deadbranches that were hanging in trees have come down, no live ones so far. I guess the Derecho did a lot of pruning last June.
My gas oven has been on since 4:00 since it will not ignite without electricity. Baking sausage, peppers, onions, and potatoes. Once the electric goes out (and it will), I still have the stove burners I can light with a match.
Darkness is coming soon, the worst time of all as you can't see what's going on. It's going to be a long, scarey night.
Don't know when the power will go off (we are usually the first to lose, last to have restored), but I'll be here for the duration.
Thanks to all who are posting. It's a good feeling not to have to go through this alone, and we're not getting the worst of it.
Oh, and as far as stress libations go, all I have is a bit of vodka and Fresca as my only mixer. Hope it doesn't reach the point where I need it!