Hurricane force winds diminish as you go out from the eye. Jose is projected to turn northward and not impact US mainland. Irma right now is projected to slam into Key West with devastating force, then go north and landfall at about Ft Myers. The Florida west coasters did not expect this, there's been a huge number fleeing and clogging the roads as they try to head north. Most shelters here in Miami and area are full, many had to wait online for hours to get in. Streets everywhere are deserted except for a few stupids who think they're better than Mother Nature. Worst time in my area will be 12-3pm Sunday. Right now it's 5.40pm EST, still have power, and actually very little wind or rain yet, but that's just right here, other spots have gotten winds, fallen trees etc. My immediate area is not in a flood or storm surge zone, but Miami Beach and close coastal areas have been evacuation in anticipation of surge. That's really serious stuff. The path to the west towards Key West is sad for the keys, but will spare Miami a direct eye hit. I am prepped to the max, and just waiting for the power to cut. It's really nerve racking, but been there, done that, I'm keeping head-cool, hopefully will stay that way during worst hit. Andrew came and went in only 3 hours, this one will be a long event.
My personal take is always be prepared. I was, way before the gas lines built up. But I've learned stuff this time, and next year, will have certain other newly learned prep things way ahead of the game. One of the biggest problems with people's prep is that many just don't bother at least getting storm shutters or panels, and end up buying plywood, batteries, water, etc at the last minute. That clogs the stores and the roads, and could be avoided by common hurricane season sense.
Wish us all luck. It's going to be miserable, and the aftermath the same.