WAYNE, Pa., Sept. 7, 2005 -- Planalytics Inc. today predicted that even the threat of a tropical storm will have a significantly stronger impact on consumer purchasing behavior than it has in prior years as the horrific impact of Katrina continues to be broadcast on cable networks around the nation.

Senior business meteorologist Paul Walsh warns, "We are expecting at least three additional storms in the Gulf of Mexico this season. On the heels of Katrina, any hint of tropical activity will have a profound impact on consumer buying behavior."

Even as rescue and recovery efforts continue in New Orleans and the northern Gulf coast, the impact of the storm and (more importantly) the 24/7 coverage of the storm by the cable networks will have a negative impact on consumers through the remainder of the Fall season.

Planalytics is the world's leading authority on the impact of weather on consumer spending. Planalytics (http://www.planalytics.com) helps companies reduce risk and improve profitability by identifying and managing the effects of weather on their business. Using a combination of historical and predictive analytics, Planalytics helps clients understand and effectively plan for weather-driven changes in supply, demand, and pricing. The company's products and services provide retailers and manufacturers with specific knowledge of how weather has and will influence their business. Clients such as Charming Shoppes, ALDO, Wilson's Leather, Nestle Waters and The Home Depot use Planalytics' information for improved decision-making both in-season and up to one year in advance to support more effective financial planning, merchandise management, advertising and promotion timing and operational effectiveness.