This morning as I drove past the local Verizon Wireless retail store, I was surprised to see no less than 50 people waiting outside. I stopped and asked (just to be sure) what they were waiting for. They answered, "The BlackBerry Storm!"

Many Verizon Wireless retail stores were planning to open an hour early today to meet the initial demand for the BlackBerry Storm from Research In Motion. It was about 8 a.m. when I zoomed past the Verizon Wireless store in my neck of the woods.

I have to admit, I am surprised. I was so surprised that I turned around, doubled back, and spoke to a couple of people just to be sure they were indeed waiting for the Storm.

The few I spoke to were very excited. Definitely some people I would label as mobile e-mail addicts, er, aficionados. The gentleman who was at the front of the line had been there since 6 a.m.

I'll hand it to Research In Motion and Verizon Wireless. People are anxious to put their hands on a touch-screen BlackBerry. The Storm looks like it will be a big seller this weekend.

What about you, are you planning to buy one?

Be sure to check back for InformationWeek's review of the BlackBerry Storm. We'll have it ready for you soon.

Update:

This morning I am working from a Starbucks not far from the Verizon Wireless store I passed early. Two men have come into Starbucks, both with new BlackBerry Storms. They look pretty happy at the moment.