Anumber of years ago while living in Pensacola florida we were ordered to evacuate, it tool us 6 hours to go 100 miles, when we arrived in northeast alabama 345 miles north the hurricane followed and knocked out power, while everything remained nor mal in Pensacola, many of neighbors could nto get out due to the roads being clogged. I now have a generator, mre bateries shutters for all windows, etc we are not going anywhere we live inaa brick home with 13 mies between us and the gulf, the south side of the house is solid brick no windows. Worst thing you can tell people is to evacuate

Ray,
New Orleans is filled with people that followed that mentality. Get the HELL OUT of the Way. Mother Nature Does not give a SHIT about you and won't think twice about taking you out.

I have lived in Biloxi since 1984, within 1/2 mile of the gulf. During Ivan, I evacuated to Lake Charles, LA. It took over 12 hours to do what would normally be a 3 hour drive. Halfway there, all the gas stations were empty. When I got back home, nothing had happened. So, I didn't think anything of Katrina. Luckily, my friends and family talked me into evacuating with them. My house was lucky. The gulf only reached my front door, the oak trees crushed my neighbors' homes instead of mine. 100 feet south of my home, nothing survived without major damage. 500 feet south of my home, nothing was intact, and in some cases, 4 storey BRICK aparment buildings were swept from their slabs, minivans were pushed through brick walls. Brick is nothing. 300 miles north of my home, there were tornados and a total loss of communications and power. The interstate, 4 miles north of the gulf, was covered with a log-jam of debris washed up by the storm. The roads half-way up the state were blocked by downed power-lines. I came back the day after the storm, to live in stone-age conditions for several weeks, relying on church groups, red cross, and National Guard for drinking water. Curfews, road blocks, no stores, gas, or restaurants. When the Wal-Mart finally opened, the line took over 4 hours, you had a couple of employees walk with you through the store while you shopped by flashlight. It is almost a year later, very few businesses are open, our east-west bridges on both sides are still gone. We have less than half of our traffic lights back up. The housing of THOUSANDS just in Biloxi is gone. So, if they had not evacuated.... Please do not be an idiot and advice people to not to evacuate because sometimes it is wasted. Waste a couple of days as an unplanned vacation, don't spend the rest of your life trying to call for help as your home or apartment is washed away, or waste everyone's time complaining that FEMA and the President are not helping you. Get insurance, keep your gas tanks full, and keep some money on hand. When the communications fail, if you can find a gas station with gas and a generator, they will only take cash.

Worse thing you can do is to tell people to evacuate? Not everyone lives in brick houses nor do they have the luxury of having a backup of all the necessities in life. I'm sure people thought the same way you did when Katrina beared down on them; hopefully you won't be left scrambling atop your roof should you decide to stay.

my goodness city county and state officials cannot figure out a plan that is workable..it is time to get it together rapidly.. the wrath of god is coming

It would seem that it all boils down to evacuation routes, and enough time to get folks out, so that the traffic doesn't last beyond the storm. Ray C's comments sound logical in light of this.

I live in NW Biloxi MS, another 1/4 mile north and I'd be out of the city. I'm in a FEMA travel trailer. Where I used to live doesn't exist anymore and has been replaced with a FEMA trailer court. It will disappear in the next major storm. There are areas where riding out the storm is not possible. My children will be returning in late June after a school year in the Pacific Northwest, they know we won't evacuate the area (I can't, I'm part of Emergency Response). But, I will my FEMA trailer behind my truck and move it three miles up the road if the storm is going to put us in the NE quadrant. If it passes far enough to the east I'll stay here. Stay or move depends more on the wind direction than strenght. I am concerned with the nightmare an evacuation could become, but stubbornly staying in a suicidal location is not to be even considered. I've had plans since my first big storm, Fredrick in '79. The plans have been revised after each storm. A blanket one answer fits all does not work. Each family making their own plan is the best, but only if the plan is developed with accurate knowledge of what is coming, a cautious approach to what we realisticly do, and the assets to pull it off. Then all that is left is figuring out how to last until outside help arrives, maybe as long as three weeks later.

Ray, You're wrong. The article is right. Get out of the path of any hurricane. I evacuated from "Rita" & The same thing happened to me in east Texas, but if I would have stayed here it would have been much worse. This week I will start preparing to evacuate. JUST IN CASE. Life is worth more than the 36 hours it took to leave.Thanks to the good people of Rusk Tx.for helping me & the 23 other people that I took with me. They were wonderful. I love ya Mike. Peace from the Texas Gulf Coast.

There are hundreds of people who would be alive today if they had evacuated, including myself and my family. It is always best to evacuate. You need to very carefully map your evacuation routes and alternatives ahead of time.

It is beyond comprehension that so many communities, counties, parishes, and states, that are struck by hurricanes over and over had and still have no comprehensive plans to protect their people. Nor does the federal government, whose sovereign responsibility is to protect its people.
Like possums (who have tiny brains), in the road they stand and stare as a speeding semi roars over them and crushes the life out of them.
Galveston island, at least, has learned from its history. There is one bridge to the mainland, yet they evacuate the island and a large teaching hospital almost every year, sometimes more than once a year.
If nobody else has a good plan, try adopting the one plan that has a proven track record.
The key word for Galveston, is to head inland a couple of hundred miles, that gets clear of the hurricane and the more violent winds and flooding that can follow land fall.

"3 or more and we're out the door" is the motto I have for my family. The levee at Lake Okeechobee is a disaster waiting to happen if there's a strong catagory 4 or 5 hurricane. Telling people that evacuation is the worst thing you can do is a ludicrous statement. It really depends on the strength of the storm. People need to realize and understand how long the actual hurricane experience lasts. If you're going to stay, than you need to be prepared patiently endure hte life that comes afterward. If you don't think you can live without AC, ice , water, , electricity, plumbing, and the like then the best thing for you to do is evacuate.

"solid brick" on the southside.....Man hurricanes swirl....gonna get ya from ALL sides...all you CAN do is GET THE HELL OUTTA DA WAY!!!!...brick...shmick

Abvout all of these responses ae right. If Ray is that far from the coast and in a concrete house he should be ok for a level 1-3 storm. with the evacuatrion and traffic problemns we saw, some local emergency managers are actually recommending this
(if his conditions were everywhere).

to evacuate houston you dont have many choices . and move 2 million people take time . i left the day befor the manditory order was given . i 10 was a mess going to austin was something ill never forget. anyone on the highway will remember what they saw forever. cars stoped all along the highway,no gas ,no water. people camped along the highway. peoplle having to use the restroom along the highway they had no choice. i saw only one highway patrol car from houston to austin . but five days later on the way back they were thicker than fleas. people were denied use of restrooms by some service stations . about 30 miles east of columbus the traffic stoped and a hundred mile parking lot began after a very long time the traffic started slowly when i got up the highway the i-10 highway some lanes were closed they were paving the highway . the news papers and media has never reported what it was like out there on i-10 and many other roads had the same problems . this is what i saw.

I was a Red Cross volunteer after Hurricane Katrina. September 8th through September 29th, 2005. The job that I was assign to was hauling suplies from Montgomery, Alabama to shelters and kitchens that were set up for the hurrican victims in Mississippi.
We went down to the shore at Waveland Mississippi and saw the damage.
There was nothing left for about three blocks back from the gulf coast. Only concert slabs. I do not see how anyone could have survived this water/wind surge . I suggest to anyone if you value your life to evacuate. What is a few days of discomfort compared to loseing your life or any loves ones? I had rather be safe than sorry.

I grew up in Gulfport, MS and have lived in New Orleans since 1989...how in the world can anyone suggest that people not evacuate? That is just inane. After Hurricane Camille, I told my mother that we would always leave...pretty serious words for a 7-year-old.

I have never regretted my decisions to leave before a storm...even if it doesn't blow hard or do devastating damage. In the past, I have left 2-3 days before landfall and I always seem to beat the traffic. There were only 2 storms where I got stuck in ungodly evacuation traffic (Elena & Ivan)...only because I was waiting on other people to get their act together.

Even though I can never seem to afford evacuating, I try to make it like a vacation...can't dwell on the gas money and time spent on these activities. This is just part of living in the Deep South, in the path of many destructive storms. You have to make the best of evacuating...THIS IS A PART OF LIFE!!!

At least we have warning....at least a few days out. Many other places are not as lucky. I'll take hurricanes over other natural disasters. I am given the opportunity to evaluate the situation and decide whether to stay or go. From what I hear, earthquakes, fires, floods, tornados don't give us the luxury of advisories and planning.

So what if you waste gas, time, money on evacuating only to come back to a home which is still standing...that's the upside. Unbelievably, I came home to New Orleans after Katrina to a crackshack which is still standing...the water stopped 1 block from my house. I might not always be so lucky. We went home to Gulfport to see my mother's house gone. Her reaction? "We lost everything in Camille and it took almost 40 years to lose it again...pretty good odds, huh?"

No matter what you leave in your house...it's only stuff...yep, some of that stuff might represent memories, but at least you will have those memories as you are still breathing, walking, etc. We can build new memories, but not new people. We all need to do what we can to preserve our material memories, but not lose our lives over them.

I suggest that this hurricane season that we ALL pitch in...if you know of someone who does not have a vehicle...let them ride with you or collect bus/train/airfare for other not as fortunate.

Our new "mantra" down here in the Deep South applies to so many scenarios..IT IS WHAT IT IS. Our philosophy down here is...Is there anything we can do to change our situation? No? Well, then, let's pick ourselves up by the bootstraps and do what's gotta be done.

So many people ask how we can live where we live. Well, why haven't these people been asking that question before the largest natural disaster in the history of this country? New Orleans and the MS Gulf Coast both experienced major storms in the past (Betsy 1965, Camille 1969) and we survived. We rebounded. We did what we had to do to get back up on our feet again. BUT, we came back and THRIVED!!!

How can we live where we live? Shoot, all you have to do is stand still and take a deep breath to get an inkling...oh, the air is fabulous. All you have to do is talk to the residents of this area and you should "get" it. Where else can you go and have an entire conversation with a neighbor with just one word or nod? The people here just understand each other. We wave to each other while passing each other on the street as we drive. We tip our heads to others as they sit on their porch, their stoop, etc. We inquire about their mamas. We spend much of our time just hanging with each other, laughing and singing.

Yes, this land on the Gulf of Mexico is land that deserves to be preserved. However, THE PEOPLE are the most important thing to preserve...so, LEAVE...EVACUATE...but come home IMMEDIATELY after the storm!

It is always best to plan and have a place to go. I rode out Katrina in New Orleans. I no longer live there. I am fortunate to be alive. Some people don't have the money for a hotel and have no family or friends to stay with. Right before the storm one official said on TV the day before the storm, "If you are still here and have no place to go, just get in the car and drive". It seemed ridiculous to me at the time. I met up with a family after the storm when I arrived at my destination 90 miles norheast of New Orleans, (I am still there) from St. Bernard Parish that did just that. Had they stayed, they may have drowned. They lost everything but their lives and a truck.

I know that folks are emotionally attached to their homes or place of birth,but what does it take for people to realize that some places should not be inhabited .One being an area that is 15 feet below sea level.I am not a genius but I know water seeks its own level.You can build all the sea walls you want but with the next hurricane you will see all the havoc once again.Our government does not have unlimited money to keep rebuilding an area that is hopeless.Do these people have some kind of death wish?Nature is cruel and will not be denied.

I cannot believe the number of people who think the government, at any level, should be the one to take care of them in an emergency. If they live on the Gulf coast, they KNOW the risk of being hit by a hurricane is HIGH. Though these governments can provide assistance, it should not be expected. If you are told to evacuate, residents should have their own plans; if the local government has offered aid, take it if you do not have your own resources. But don't complain when you are left alone in your home with no way for rescue because you opted not to.
I would also like to remind everyone that the term "Free country" does not refer to room and board as many citizens now seem to think it does, only the right to choose to stay in a deadly place if one wishes. Plan ahead.

Brick doesnt mean a thing to a hurricane. My friends had a brick house that was TOTALLY demolished (only slab left) in Katrina.

MOVE!

What do you expect when all of the major offices at all levels, local, county, state, and federal are all occupied by Republicans who don't give one shit about the common man?

In the past when big hurricanes hit the gulf coast the goverment gave some poeple old army tents and some shovels and said good luck. That was it, no more was given, no more was expected and the people rebuilt with there own hands not the federal government. That is the American way that people have forgotten, here you can make something from nothing. These hand outs are rediculous and often seem unappriciated. It is as the people expect the government to take care of them. That is the wrong impression, we need to show them that is not the way things work. Good ole hard work makes for a good life and happiness. That is what we need to get back to. Show a little pride in your neighborhood, work with your friends and family and do it yourself now and quit complaining about the government taking so long to do it for you. Evacuate and keep your most prized things, the life of you and your family. The rest you can work on later.

In the past when big hurricanes hit the gulf coast the goverment gave some poeple old army tents and some shovels and said good luck. That was it, no more was given, no more was expected and the people rebuilt with there own hands not the federal government. That is the American way that people have forgotten, here you can make something from nothing. These hand outs are rediculous and often seem unappriciated. It is as the people expect the government to take care of them. That is the wrong impression, we need to show them that is not the way things work. Good ole hard work makes for a good life and happiness. That is what we need to get back to. Show a little pride in your neighborhood, work with your friends and family and do it yourself now and quit complaining about the government taking so long to do it for you. Evacuate and keep your most prized things, the life of you and your family. The rest you can work on later.

E Simmons can't believe that people expect help from their government in the event of a natural disaster??? Good Lord, man. When Americans are suffering, this is no time to promote your underlying theory of Social Darwinism. We pay taxes to our government for just this reason!!! I suppose you have no compassion for people who didn't have the resources to evacuate before Katrina. Yes, how crappy of them not to pull themselves out of the flood by their bootstraps.

Seems to me that more and more people are failing to take responsibility for themselves and their actions in this country! People want to continuously point a finger and blame someone else for their woes....if they would just use some common sense and plan ahead, things could turn out differently.

Our friends volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in a hurricane stricken area...they won't do it again because so many of the recipients just sat around and watched them work (the wife had just recuperated from a ruptured brain aneurysm). It's time for 'victims' to quit holding their hand out and start digging in to help themselves.

We had a tornado warning the other night..we spent a couple hours in the basement with our dogs and an emergency weather radio..mostly because we have experienced tornado destruction before...I don't need to be knocked in the head to get the message..we learned the last time. Mother Nature is not controllable...our actions are.

I have two sisters in Biloxi. One always evacuates, the other says they can't evacuate for "the traffic is too heavy." I've told her for years to get the hell out before the traffic starts. If it looks like you'll be hit--go! But no. They barely escaped with their lives in Katrina, and their beautiful back-bay home was destroyed. And if one hits this summer (and it probably will) they plan to stay. Death wish? Must be. It's distressing!

Hmmmmm. 12hrs of incovenience getting to safety vs. 12hrs of TERROR hunkered down in the hallway wondering if your house is gonna hold up. No brainer there.

My house took the worst of Ivan and we lost 3 shingles...4 family and friends lost their homes. If you want to risk your life on the CHANCE you'll be ok, then stay. I wish I hadn't.

Oh, and to Katrina victims: You have my utmost understanding and sympathy, but get over it. After 2 years Pensacola STILL isn't even close to being rebuilt, so don't hold your breath.

I stayed stressed for months after Ivan waiting for things to get back to the way they were; I finally felt better when I realized that things will NEVER get back to the way they were. Move on, you'll be happier, really.

Leave early, take cash, fill up, and pray.

To V. Taylor from Missouri--I can't believe that after all these months reading "Rising from the Ruin: Two Towns Rebuild...", that folks like you still haven't gotten the message that Bay St. Louis and Waveland are not below sea level. How many times have these two towns been wiped out in the last 200 years?

"5000 years ago, Moses said:
Pick up your shovel, mount your ass,
and I'll lead you to the promised land.

5000 years later, Roosevelt said:
Lay down your shovel, sit on your ass, and light up a camel, for this is the promised land.

Today, Bush will tax your shovel, sell your camel, kick your ass, and tell you there is no promised land."

Yes, it's a old joke, but the point is hidden within it's words. Do not expect handouts from the government, do not expect individual plans to be made around a single family or individual. Instead, make your own plans, use the local, state and federal plans as a backup. Rely on yourself, because in the middle of a storm, with the waters rising, no power, and high winds bashing at your home, no one will be around to hear your screams, the one person you will always have to rely upon is yourself.

I only pray that you didn't convince the members of your family that someone else will be guaranteed to be there to pull your butts out of the hazard, cause then you will not only become responsible for yourself but for others. It's already obvious how terribly you did on that one if your in this situation.

Evacuate, find safety for yourself and your family, and help those who you can in the process. For one last quote, let me repeat; "My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you: Ask what you can do for your country."

Barnes, Houston is absolutely correct. It is not a consitutiional right or benefit to receive such tremendous aid as a result of any catastrophy. Hurricanes have been happening for a long long time. I feel too many people are making a huge deal about delays and the lack of benefits for victims.We made plans, collected supplies and moved timely and it was scary but we made it and we did not depend on the government to pay for any thing. We are fine and happy. So get with it and quit making a big deal- prepare you plan now and be ready.

We live in Baytown, a town about 20 minutes east of Houston, located between Houston and Louisiana on Galveston Bay, and were here for Hurricane Rita (just a few weeks after Katrina hit LA). We evacuated with three small children, 4 pets, and our most precious family memorabilia (i.e. photo albums, birth certificates, family heirlooms, etc). We went into Central Texas, to my family's home. Normally, this ride would take 4 hours. 26 hrs later, we arrived at my parents. 26 HOURS!! And we evacuated 3 DAYS before the hurricane was to hit. Yes, we were one of the cars in that heavy traffic you all watched on T.V. There was no gas, no gas stations open, no food places, no places to go to the bathroom, nothing. It was HOT, being early September. I saw humanity at it's primest. All of that, for nothing. The Hurricane turned on the last day, and reduced speed. There were high winds here, a little damage, no electricity for two days, no water for one. I have to tell you, until you have been through something like that evacuation, you can't say whether or not you would do it again for anything less that a "Sure Thing" Hurricane. That evacuation was worse that having to go 2 days without electricity and one day without water would have been. I can always stockpile flashlights, batteries and water. We've had plumbing problems before and been without running water or a toilet for a few days before. I could stand it, IN MY OWN HOME. But having to do the exact same thing, for over a day, in a car, in heavy traffic, with over 500,000 other people....ugh. It was horrific. Forget it. Unless it's a category 3 or above, and supposed to hit dead on, I don't think I would leave either.

I moved to Gautier, Mississippi about a month before the storm. Not having experienced a hurricane before, we took the warnings seriously and evacuated. I came back and our house was fine but as everyone knows, many weren't. I have seen the houses that were demolished, the slabs left behind, the "stairs to nowhere" and also smelled the odor we dare not speak of. My anger during and after Katrina was because not evacuating took many lives needlessly but more so it is towards the parents who chose to put their children at risk rather than evacuate. If you do decide to stay, please think of your children. They don't have the choice to stay or go. Why even consider putting their lives in jeopardy? If you aren't thinking of saving yourself, think of them. Whether your home be brick or stick built, get them to safety.

In response to Barnes and Scooter of Houston -

Once again we see the same attitude and the same
perception - the folks of Southern Mississippi are
sitting arounds with hands up backsides, waiting for
the government to bail them out.

If you had the sense of purpose and generosity of
spirit to come down here and help, you'd see that
no one is doing that. We are rebuilding and aren't
waiting for FEMA to do squat.

What is taking so long? Try calling a contractor.
Try getting drywall or flooring. Try getting an
electrician. It's easy to sit in a place that's
whole, telling those of us in a place that's
broken what to do.

Barnes in particular seems to wish for the old
days where the Army gave you a tent and a shovel.
Great. Diptheria was present in the old days too,
as was yellow fever, rampant racism, smallpox,
lack of civil rights, child labor, etcetc. Sounds
idyllic.

I invite both these Houstonians to read the other
stories on this site and see what people here are
up against, and how we are rebuilding in spite of
it. I hope that their next move would be toward their
car keys to drive down here to help, rather than
to the computer to let loose another fusillade of
high handedness.

But I doubt it.

I worked as disaster response during last year's hurricane season in the Gulf and in previous years in Florida. I can't begin to count the number of brick homes, apartments and office buildings I have seen totally destroyed by the fury of these storms. Trailers are even worse. No one can predict which block will survive and which one won't. In an 80 trailer park there can be 20 untouched and 20 totally destroyed and the rest somewhere in between.

Taking a chance that yours will be one that makes it is foolhardy. Ask anyone in St Bernard Parish or parts of Mississippi or the area south of Lake Charles if they'd stay. I've talked to a lot of folks who actually did ride out last year's horror and to a man (or woman) they all said NEVER again and all agreed it was the most stupid thing they had ever done in their lives. The advice "if it's a 3 - leave" is sound.

I'd rather inspect your damaged home than watch your damaged body being pulled from it's rubble.

I've come to appreciate your way of life. I enjoy the warm hospitality and the incredible spirit you folks possess. I respect your ability to weather the emotional, financial and physical storms you've been hit with. So please - if this year brings me to your area, god forbid, let me meet you as a returning evacuee. Your property losses will occur whether you're there or not. There are thousands of us who can help you replace those losses, but not one of us who can bring you back to life.

RB from Chicago says:

MOVE!

Great. Where in Chicago do you live? We're there!

Let`s think about this,
I live in the part of the county that has a lot of tornados. What should I do? Well since I`m not going to leave I have taken all of the steps I can to protect my property and life. When the storm warnings come I take cover and hope for the best.
If the storm ever makes a direct hit I know all of my plans will make only a slight difference in the outcome to my property. I might be alive, but but all else will be gone. What kind of help should I expect from local and state government. I`d hope someone would be around to dig me and my family out. If the destruction is wide spread government sould help protect us from each others lawlessness, and I`d expect emergency medical help be given to maintain life if possible.The reestablishment of city services and inferstructure should be made as soon as coditions allow.
Should I accept the possibility that my life will never be the same ? yes, Should I except that the government could let me down ? yes,
Tornado distruction comes on a much smaller scale then hurricanes. The aftermath is then on a much smaller scale but the the individual distruction could have the same results. Should I blame my loss on the government or the storm and myself for staying were life and death systems come and go at will. I stay and take my chances. After close calls some people can`t except the danger and move; others that get hit rebuild, some laugh and say it will never happen.
Hurricanes or tornados; if you live where life and property are at risk everyone needs to except the possibilities and make plans about what should be none well ahead of the event. If the wost happens then it should be of no suprise. Mother nature and death are not strangers. They walk together as equals.We can walk with them only if we understand each of them and ourselves.If we stay because of the view, the way the air smells or because of the whole package we calll a life style; we must also stay knowing the price that they can charge for shareing thier company. When the bill comes due we must be then willing to pay the cost.

After reading all of the comments posted here, it takes little effort to remember vividly the horror of watching the Katrina/Rita Hurricanes of 2005. Other than a couple of hours of lost power, we were fortunate in coming through Rita. My comment is not about evacuation, it is about living in the area that everyone is COMING TO!! We live just outside of Huntsville, TX, directly in the path of one of the primary evacuation routes for Houston, and the surrounding communities. For years, my children have teased me about having 5 bottles of ketchup, 10 boxes of chicken and rice, multiples of "everything" in the freezer. Well, my shopping was what saved us during the evacuation of Houston last year. There was not a loaf of bread or bottle of water, canned goods, or even the most simple snack items to be had, and forget about gasoline. My suggestion: Pray for the people who need the help of God to survive, pay close attention to what is happening around you, but for goodness sake, if the TV is telling you that there is going to be an evacuation in your area, starting...whenever...take steps to have what you need. Once an evacuation starts, you can just about forget it.

This problem of evacuation was not limited to Katrina. Many I know on the TX Gulf Coast found
themselves stuck in traffic for 24 hours to evacuate. I cannot imagine a worse scenario than
being in a car with a storm right on top of you.

Furthermore, there seems to be a certainty about
"where a storm will hit" on this page that the
reality cannot meet. Next time there's a storm
a'comin, have a look at the "computer models"
part of the Tropical Storms page at Weather
Underground. You will see the scatter in the models
and the amount of interpretation that has to go into
a forecast. Also instructive is reading the
"discussion" page for every forecast the NHC puts
out. If you base your faith in computer models,
this will shake it up. It doesn't impugn models,
but it does interpret them in a manner that will
make you take the "white zone" around a predicted
track (which tells you the probability) very
seriously.

Bay Saint Louis was within the "red" zone of a
forecasted hurricane landfall three times last
year. Except for Katrina, nothing happened. Three
evacuations is a lot, especially if you have
kids and no family in the area.

I'm certainly not excusing those who don't evacuate,
and wouldn't recommend staying to anyone. However,
those from far flung areas of the country who
think we are just recalcitrant and waiting for the
government to get us out haven't been looking into
this matter very much.

I grew up in western NY. Live in Virginia and have lived through some remnants of hurricanes over the years. You don't have to have lived by the coast to understand the damage that will occur if a 3 or higher hurricane comes in from the south. When the headlines of an article says " Evacuation plan: Run like hell" shows up, you have to agree the government hasn't learned very much in the last year and people are starting to forget the horror that went on after last season.
I did go to Long Beach for a week last Nov. and got to see that for myself. Saw quite a number of brick building pulled into the Gulf or laying 300 yrds from where they originally stood.
As we start this hurricane season, I can only say You people take care, get out of the way and look out for one another.

As one who did evacuate from Slidell, La. on the Sat before the storm .... and came back to find my place totally gone ... I say EVACUATE !!
As to waiting for the government ... I did not ... but I am waiting for my homeowners INSURANCE company to pay for my loss ... after going to mediation, and having their adjuster start with 'NO' , my structural engineer convinced him to come out to the site ... after a conversation over the pilings (the house was 11' above the Lake) ... the adjuster finally understood that wind took the place ...
still no word from the company ...
Homeowners Insurance will be the BIGGEST hurdle after a hurricane .... but you will be here to keep trying to get what you thought you paid for ...

PARADISE LOST
AS I write this blog, my eyes fill with tears, for freinds that lost their lives in the storm!
I lived on the Gulf coast since 1963. I survived Betsy, Camille..and now Katrina...My wife and I left the coast 3 days after Katrina...We want to go home but unfortunatly there isn't adaquate housing even for the people who stayed, Jobs...there are apparently plently..just no places to rent..We are currently living in Colorado Hoping and praying that maybe someday soon...apartments will be rebuilt and be affforadable enough for us to return to our beloved Gulf Coast

Why would you even move back into a high hurricane potential area without the means to leave quickly? You can never expect the government to take care of its people. I have never seen any government program function properly, what makes people think that FEMA will do any better? Take care of yourself, if you can't do that, don't put yourself in harm's way.

I grew up on the Gulf Coast and have been through every storm from 1967. My town was lucky when Camille hit and my family was in a shelter in town. Frederic in 1979, we foolishly chose not to evacuate, but once again were lucky and pulled ourselves up and worked through the damage. In 1985 Elena nailed us, but we had gotten out of town. The trip back home was pretty rough, but we rebuilt and repaired. Georges in 1998, no question, got out and came back, lucky again. Dodged Ivan in 2004, but still got to a shelter. We watched Katrina build to one of the most massive and powerful storms in recorded history and evacuated, convincing many obstinate family members to do the same. The devastation that resulted from her landfall was awe inspiring, emotionally draining and fraught with uncertainty. No help was expected from the government or anyone else, my family has chosen to live on the coast for at least 6 generations. We got back home and began to clear up the mess and get our homes and lives back to normal. It is incredibly foolish for any citizen of the gulf coast to not have a plan that they follow any time a storm threatens. The lives of your family members will not be protected by pride, but caution and a well thought out and followed through plan will protect them. Houses, cars, belongings...they are only things that can be replaced. We appreciate all of the help that was given by friends, family, volunteers and the government. I, for one, did not ask for a handout, but I did accept what was offered. I have done everything that I can do to mitigate future damage and expect that most others down here will do the same. It is a lovely place to live and raise a family, but like nearly every other place in the world, disaster can strike and it is a threat that we live with each and every day. I too am saddened and angered by those who expect a handout from others. A helping hand from our fellow Americans is all that one can realistically hope for. For all who think that people here are whining and looking for a free ride, please, take the time to find out what is really going on here. Many cities are still virtually destroyed, some completely. Television, internet and photos do not do justice to the amount of devastation that the Mississippi coast endured. To truly understand what has happened you have to experience it in person, to see the lives built for so many years destroyed in mere hours.

Living on the coast of Florida, we have been through the evacuation route. Having been to BSL, I have seen the total loss. The ONLY good thing about a hurricane is that we have DAYS to get it together and evacuate. Not like those experienceing tornados or earthquakes....The answer is to ALWAYS be prepared and take care of yourself, if you can. I understand some are elderly or handicapped, but in general make your OWN plan. Right now in Florida we are preparing. Large plastic containers full of supplies for three days. Make sure all your papers are in one place and easily available and take photos of your house and belongings. Keep them with your Insurance papers. Have money readily available also. DON'T wait til it it coming your way. DO IT NOW. Keep a list of hotels or shelters that take pets, if that is important to you. DO IT NOW!!!! Then GET OUT early, don't wait til the last minute. YES, it is inconvenient and there may be traffic, but do it anyway. And those of you who don't think you need flood insurance or your agent told you you didn't, get it anyway. A basic policy is not that expensive for peace of mind. To all those in Mississippi, on that beautiful coast, We are all praying for you. You are not forgotten.

Dear America-Remember the Republican mantra through all the Reagan-Bush-Bush years? Less government, lower taxes. Well now you got what you voted for and what you've paid for. So stop whining and start digging your waterproof bunkers. You can use the money you saved from all those tax cuts to buy insurance. What's that? You're not rich so you didn't get any real tax cuts? Don't worry FEMA has a trailer for you....

I have lived in South Florida my entire life. I have come accustumed to a tranquil life style. All though there are emminent threats to human life, I think It is best to evacuate those who live within a few miles of a coast. And P.S.- Rhonda how are you writing this letter if you are not alive?

To Chuck Loch from LA. FYI, Mayor Nagin is a democrat, so is the Governor of La. The decision to live in a reclaimed swamp, below sea level, in a hurricane prone area, is about as silly as living on a landfill hillside in Laguna, Ca. or the mud flats in San Francisco. The key is to know the risks of your area and plan your living arrangements accordingly. If the politicians really cared and exercised their power, the lower third of the Gulf States would be uninhabited swamp, open only for tourism and hunting. Oh, but then we'd be living in the Soviet Union, which also doesn't exist anymore.
The bottom line is that Government's responsibility is to preserve or restore a public framework so YOU, as an individual, can get on with your private life. Your individual survival or recovery is up to you. You know the risks, so if you don't prepare for them, then look in a mirror for someone to blame.

I was one that did not evacuate for Katrina, mainly because of the traffic and no where to go. We live six blocks from the beach and had no flooding. We lost our roof, and if we had not been there to catch the rain water with every pot, pan and towel we had, we would have lost all of our home, not just the second floor ceilings and floors. As far as the government goes, it is every person's responsibility to make sure they have the means to get out or enough rations to live on for at least four or five days. I waited in lines for hours just like everyone else to get ice and water when they became available. To expect that the government will show up in a day or two and fill your ice chest and turn on your eletricity is ridiculous.

Evacuate. Do it early, and plot out backroads routes that will keep you off main highways that are likely to be more congested. If you want the joys of living on the coast (Gulf or otherwise) you also have to be responsible for getting yourself out of the way of natural disasters. When the devastating Hurricane hit Galveston in 1900, there was no advance warning system. There is no reason that destruction of property from these storms should also result in loss of life.

The first place to start is with a strictly enforced building code. Frankly, it is not always possible to evacuate, even if you knew where to evacuate to (hopefully where the hurricane isn't going).

I live in South Florida. We have one of the strictest building codes in the country and, even though there were some sloppily built houses, by and large the area survived a category 5 storm with less than 20 casualties (counting some post-hurricane accidents). With a state shaped in such a way that everybody has to go due North, evacuation is not an option, so we try to build strong, prepare, and stock up.

For approximately 100,000 years our weather has been incredibly constant: typFor approximately 100,000 years our weather has been incredibly constant: typically no hotter than about 127-130F in the deserts, and no colder than about -60F in the artic regions (that doesn't include Antarctica that gets stupid-cold).
Well, "springtime" is over. There is more energy in the system (heat in the atmosphere and ocean) than ever in the last dozens of thousands of years. What does that mean exactly? The increasing amount of energy in the system increases the size of the range of weather conditions. In other words, the number of records (high/low temperatures, rainfall, snowfall, days without rain, days with rain) each year will increase. Don't believe me? Count the number of record high temperatures for each year going back 20 years.
Why is there so much energy in the system? Who cares; that's moot!
Sea level is rising because ice is melting. Water is heavy. It pushes down on the earth. The earth moves: earthquakes. As the earth under the oceans is pressed down, the magma under the earth is displaced: volcanoes. Dry land that gets more water, gets more insects: plague. (Don't believe that one? Infections of malaria and yellow fever increase during el niños.) Animals and insects relocate their habitats. (What are equatorial sharks doing off the coast of Alaska? Following the equatorial fish.) Crocodiles in the pool, mountain lions in the backyard, and bears in the street will become more and more common. Even the trees are relocating; the tree line (the highest altitude where trees can grow) has moved further up the mountains.
If you are alive on this planet, you are in more danger from natural disasters than any human, ever. There is no where to go where you can avoid them all: hurricane, tornado, ice storm/blizzard, flooding, earthquake, volcano, tsunami, drought, pestilence, fire, and plague. Insurance companies (big ones) are going to fail because the tables and equations they use to calculate risk have already begun to fail them.
ically no hotter than about 127-130F in the deserts, and no colder than about -60F in the artic regions (that doesn't include Antartica that gets stupid-cold).
Well, "springtime" is over. There is more energy in the system (heat in the atmosphere and ocean) than ever in the last dozens of thousands of years. What does that mean exactly? The increasing amout of energy in the system is increasing the

I can't believe that people posting here are even proposing not evacuating in the face of a hurricane. Comments like these do a disservice to the thousands (yes, thousands) of the dead who foolishly thought they could outlast Katrina and who ignored evacuation requests.

Although I was saved from Katrina due to geography (I'm in Illinois), I have been devastated by Katrina because she took so much from my family and friends in her path. My family in Biloxi, Gulf Port and the New Orleans area lost their homes, businesses and even their lives. Now that the dead have been buried and the homeless have been housed, our family is dealing with the harsh reality that it will take years before everyone resumes some sense of normality either in the Gulf area or elsewhere.

I know its a not fun evacuating and money is tight but the call to evacuate is a life or death decision. I would give anything to get back loved ones Katrina stole last August but I know this cannot be my reality now. They thought it was too much hassle to leave their homes and jobs so they gambled and stayed. Too late did they realize that it was the wrong decision.

On the advent of the 2006 hurricane season, please create a plan to leave your areas on your own if a storm threatens. Don't anticipate or wait for anyone to help you leave. I know its hard to leave the material things behind, but they are only things that can be replaced. Your life and lives of your loved ones cannot be replaced. Leave and live.

I live in Colorado, up against the foothills. No hurricanes happening here. No earthquakes either. We get the occasional brushfire, but we natives make fun of folks who don't keep a good firebreak space around their houses, especially in our famously-dry mountain forests. And my area is too hilly for tornadoes. My point? If Mother Nature, red of tooth and claw, keeps scouring your house off the map, maybe you should MOVE!

To RB in Chicago, and all those who coldly imply its our own fault for being hurricane victims because we live on the Gulf Coast . . . we were born here, grew up here, and are employed here. Making a choice of where we live and work never entered the equation. Do you have a job in Chicago for us? Better yet, will you help us find one? Will you then help us financially to relocate as funds are short here. Most of us have lost or damaged homes and many STILL waiting for the insurance company to pay our claim. I guess its easier to be critical than compassionate. (By the way, I am one of the fortunate few who will retire in three years and will be in a financial position to move. And am counting the days! But the majority of people on the Gulf Coast and New Orleans are not as fortunate as I.) So please offer constructive advice or compassionate comments, not ignorant criticism.

I just returned home from working on a photo-essay in New Orleans.

After interviewing residents from various parts of this great city, a certain level of injustice revealed itself to me. While I only spoke to a limited number of people due to a relatively short visit, those I interviewed were of a diverse enough group - black & white; old & young. Many people told me (and I actually observed), that there were few to no FEMA trailers in NOLA's lower 9th Ward & parts of St. Bernard Parish. Demolition & re-building efforts were also scant compared to other (even just slightly) more prosperous, but not by much areas of the city and surrounding parishes.

Granted, the lower 9th and parts of St.Bernard parish were most devastated by Katrina, and the interest/eagerness to re-build here may be more limited, those who had trailers, and who appeared to be on the rebound, were not the region’s most poor. Many of the region’s most poor are not even in New Orleans at this time, and some of those who are told me stories of how FEMA has turned a blind eye, how they have not provided trailers, or delivered promised assistance.

Rather than some of the above dialogue calling into question whether or not the government should be held responsible for the recovery process, maybe it’s right to question the fairness of what they ARE doing.

Rhonda is a "computer ghost"...David

It seems like the readers/writers that are the harshest and most unkind are those that really don't have a clue as to the way of life in the "Deep South". I live in the Midwest but I frequent the shores of the Mississippi Gulf Coast as well as N.O. on a regular basis and I've been to the coast three times now since Katrina wrecked the entire area. Those who've not witnessed the destruction in person shouldn't be allowed to offer their short-sighted opinions in these forums because they really have no clue as to how great these people are and how hard they're working to get their lives back to some kind of normalicy.

Yes, Katrina wiped out many, many homes, buildings, businesses, etc., but for the most part, the owners of these forsaken properties are bound and determined to rebuild and continue their way of life on the southern coast. How can anyone give the advice for them to move? That's assinine - it isn't even an option for most. That's a huge part of the beauty of the south...many generations have lived and prospered there. If half of you people had ever seen the sprawling mansions on the beach before Katrina and then taken a ride to witness for yourselves the slabs and debris after Katrina, I feel certain you wouldn't have such negative comments to make about these people and their way of life.

My aunt currently lives in Gulfport (my mother just moved back to Indiana earlier this month) and you can bet that she'll evacuate for any and all future hurricane warning(s). It doesn't matter where you live in the states as each has it's own peril where natural disasters are concerned. Evacuation really is the smart action to take; if your home is going to be swept/blown/flooded away, it's going to happen regardless of if you're there or not!

God bless our Mississippi Gulf Coast and the people who live there! You've not been forgotten!!

I have been in both hurricanes and typhoons and I have had it easy and I have seen total destruction. I now live in Ft. Walton Beach and we have had several storms in the past 24 months. People on the coast need to "think." Last minute preparation is not the way to prepare.

Our law firm's office is on a barrier island. We evacuate four times a year, on average. We now have it set up so that 1) our computers have been replaced by notebooks, 2) our data is kept in a server in a remote location, 3) we have built a separate technology center with a propane back up generator, and 4) we have set up a video conferencing system which goes online this month. For us, evacuation is just a fact of living on the water. We already telecommute for most of our work, and hurricane season only reinforces that way to work.

I was born and raised on the gulf coast and continued to live there through the 1980's. After several close calls, one direct hit, and many false alarms from the hurricane seasons, we finally decided that the tension of having to be "hurricane ready" through 6 months of every year was not worth it. It seemed that we were always preparing or repairing. We moved inland to Tennessee, and while we do experience our share of damaging weather here also, it is a relief to be out of constant worrying about hurricane season. The choice to live in the coastal areas is up to each person, and many find the rewards more than make up for the downsides. My family chose to move to another area for our mental and financial well being. After reading the many posts about life post-Katrina and pre-storm this year, I can certainly recommend relocation if you are considering that as an option. We plan to vacation on the coast whenever possible, but no, we will never live there year round again.

I am a college student at Indiana State University. I spent my spring break in the Gulf Coast doing volunteer clean up. Our group for 40 college students worked everywhere from Gulfport and Biloxi, to St. Bennard Parrish, LA. The devistation from this natural disaster can not be conveyed to the American people through the media. I could not beleive the stories I heard form the residents. Some waited out the storm, others left only to come back to nothing. Many did not realize how bad Katrina was going to be. Whether they evacuated or not, each had their own personal story that was as unique as them. I think sometimes the Man upstaris does things like this to open the eyes of people everywhere to be thankful for what they have. I think the attitudes of many people of the South have changed. Our work was greatly appreciated by most of the people we woked for. Others in the neighborhood were begging us to come help them the next day. Regardless of your personal feelings, no one asked for this to happen and everyone should do their part to help these people who have been devistated.

how would people leaving be a bad thing? come on people. i would be the one to get people to safety and to be the one who knows that houses wouldnt last long. some lasted a little bit more than others, but still.

That guy must have some pretty bad a$$ brick! Maybe we need some of that on our military trucks.

Tomorrow is the beginning of Hurricane Season. After reading all of the above comments boy I feel I have learned alot. I live in West Palm Beach Florida, we have been hit for the last two years and they get worse in Catagory every year. God knows what it will be this year but I do have a plan. I am the, "If its a three or more, I'm out the door. Not taking a chance. I have a driving route mapped out to get to my sisters in Northern Florida. I will have pets and Grandaughter with me and will leave ahead of time. Heck with the job, might not have it when I get back anyway, I live in an apartment so I know it will go when the winds hit. Wilma was a 2 when her eye went over us and that, thank you very much, was scary enough in that apartment. NEVER AGAIN. Get out, what makes it in material things makes it, what doesn't, you start over. Easy, no way, but your life is more important than material things. I will not relocate to south Fl if we are wiped out as for one thing it is just way to expensive, plus I am not going through that every year for the next 10 for 15 years. I depend on me, no one else.

Its always easy to blame someone else for you're
own downfalls, and short comings,but commonsense
will work everytime,if you have any sense at all.
(Think)How long was it,after 9/11 did it take for
the American people to get back into the same old
trend(Better them than me)Well Katrina victims,
welcome to the real world.If it had happened to
someone else that is just what you or most would
be saying right now.So get on with your life,
and quit blaming everyone else.Oh by the way,
For you people Blaming Republicans for your problems,,Remember your leaders in Loisiana are
Democrats...

It's inconceivable to me, what appears to be the sheer stupidity (perhaps just muleheadedness) of some folks. My wife and I lived in South Florida for 7 years. We fled from more than 1 hurricane that was a Cat. 3 or higher. Once we had children we decided that it just wasn't worth the risk...we love our family too much!!! We moved. It's that simple folks. This country is enormous! There is plenty of room in America, plenty of land. You can move elsewhere in the South if you can't bear the thought of leaving the South. But, for you and your families sakes...GET OUT...don't live beneath sea level. Now that you've seen what can happen, why test fate as if it can't happen again? It WILL HAPPEN AGAIN! It's not a matter of IF, but of WHEN. With that said, if you are that stubborn, that you just have to move back to that same area, when you have a country the size of ours to choose from, then you deserve whatever you get and shouldn't expect help from anyone. Our tax dollars should not be there to bail out stupidity. The first time yes, the second time and beyond...NO!!! As the saying goes: Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me.

Silly to tell people not to live where there is a danger of a natural disaster! How about living near volcanoes - Washington and Alaska and Hawaii? Fault lines - California and the Pacific coast? Risk of tsunami - Paific coast? Tornadoes - midwest? Snow storms - lots of places north of the Gulf Coast?!?

How about you folks who comes to the Gulf Coast for its great fishing? The snowbirds who come down to enjoy our mild winters? Where would YOU be when you come down here without the local residents who keep the hotels, restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations, etc etc etc open so YOU can come for a week or two of fun in the sun?

Evacuate! Don't evacuate! Wait - maybe the storm will turn. Maybe it won't. Who knows until it happens? The forecast for NO, LA last year was that Katrina was NOT going to hit ... until the Saturday morning before it hit. Oops!

Until you've been through a storm or an evacuation, you don't have a clue. In Baton Rouge, LA, which is the capital of our state, the roads areusually DEAD STOPPED during an evacuation. There are two ways to get across the Mississippi River here and everyone must go across one of them if they are evacuating from NO, LA or other places east. And we are two hours from the coast. But if those folks had stayed where they were, they'd be dead. You'll hear no complaints from this southern girl about a little inconvenience in exchange for saving lives.

People HOURS from the coast in MS lost their homes. In Jones Country, MS, which is about where the hurricane began its NE turn, I have heard tell that nearly 60% of the homes had damage from Katrina. Not from the tornadoes, but from the hurricane itself. Who would have EVER thought that ANYONE THREE HOURS from the coast would worry about a hurricane?!? Well, they do now, I can tell you.

I read the post about folks down here being lazy. Let me tell you that these folks have been working and working hard. Despite depression and anxiety and having lost everything and not knowing where their next paychecks or meals might be coming from, they have worked. If someone is here to offer a little assistance for a week and the local guys needs a few hours rest, kudos to them both: one for being charitable and the other for resting in prepartion for the continued work he faces when the helpers go home.

Everyone tells everyone else what they should and shouldn't be doing. Until you've lived a day or a week or a life in my shoes, you are not fit to make decisions for me.

Here's what I just don't get....Why in the world would you stay if there were a "category 3 or less" instead of sitting in traffic in order to get the hell out? Especially Danica from Baytown TX? Wouldn't you want to kill yourself if your laziness resulted in the harm to your children? I certainly hope that anyone who lives in the Gulf Coast region would heed the warnings (Cincinnati weather stations had reported on Katrina every day for a week!) and evacuate while you had a chance. Who cares if you spend a day in traffic to go 100 miles. Isn't the peace of mind worth it?
I sincerely hope that the Gulf Coast can catch a break this year to give people time to recover more, but Mother nature is unpredictable. Please save yourselves and evacuate WHEN (not if) the next storm comes your way.

People need to quit blaming the government for the weather......and taking FEMA for granted....most people don't even know that FEMA was created by President Jimmy Carter....one of the worlds great humanitarians.....to "help" in the aftermath of a disaster....not a fix all!
FEMA trailers are temporary housing....now all these people are whining about a year later......that's what homeowners insurance is for....you should have had it.......like I do...no one likes to pay for insurance.....but when you have a loss you are greatful....I've lived on the Gulf Coast for almost 40 years.....been through dozens of hurricanes because I choose to do so...stop blaming the government and get on with your lives!

v. taylor Ofallon wrote: "Our government does not have unlimited money to keep rebuilding an area that is hopeless." This adminsitration's inexplicably foolish decision to invade Iraq contradicts your theory of unlimited money being used to rebuild a hopeless region. I mean, is there any place in the world more hopeless than the Middle East? These people have been fighting it out for THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS of years, but Bush thinks we're going to take over one country in the region and change it all? This domino theory is sillier than the original one. I hope you were against the war, comrade, because only then will your argument hold any water.

That said, people around the country have to understand that the Katrina-related damage in New Orleans was supposed to have been preventable. In fact, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for years had assured residents here that we were safe from Category 3 hurricanes, which is what Katrina was when it struck the city. Neglect, mostly by the U.S. government (and some by our corrupt locals, of course), caused this devastation in my hometown. Interestingly, we learned that a different type of U.S. government neglect helped allow the 9/11 terrorists to succeed in causing great devastation to New York City. This devastation in NYC, while much more shocking and dramatic, was not nearly as widespread as the devastation here in New Orleans -- and no less an authority than Rudolph Guiliani has said so. Yet where is the federal committment to New Orleans after Katrina as it was to New York after 9/11? We're not asking for handouts, people; we're asking for help, just like those in NYC received after 9/11. Is there any reason you would consider our requests unfair? Why is it considered whining and lazy to ask for the government to which you pay plenty of taxes to do its part?

To Barnes in Houston, the person everyone seems to idolize for his old-fashioned, hard-working American spirit, I say this: it must be nice to be able to post a message about how simple, hard work can overcome everything, but please remember that world about which you write so simply is much more complicated. Hard work in and of itself cannot and will not always overcome the intracies of being screwed over by the federal government, the state & local governments, the electric company, your insurance company, your mortgage company, your contractor, and possibly even your looting neighbors next door (yes, there is still looting going on). For instance, one my co-workers has been ordered to raise his house by the new federal guidelines, but here's the catch: he can't get the money to raise his house until it is repaired, but he doesn't have and hasn't been able to get the money to repair his house in order to raise it. He was turned down for the unbiquitously recommended SBA loan, and his insurance isn't covering this "flood" damage. Of course, he was told he didn't need flood insurance in the first place. Do you have any advice for this hard-working American, Mr. Barnes?

And finally, to all those who say we should move because we know we have it coming because we live in a hurricane hotbead: did you tell the good folks in San Francisco to move after the 1989 earthquake because they should know they have it coming by living in an earthquake zone? Have you been telling everyone in Tornado Alley to move all these years because they know they're bound to be destroyed by a twister eventually? Did you tell New Yorkers to move out or at least to quit their jobs at the World Trade Center after the 1993 terrorist attack because it was obviously a big terrorist target? While we're talking about the Big Apple, consider this: scientists expect a major hurricane to hit -- gasp! -- New York City sometime in the next ten to twenty years; depending on the size and speed of this anticipated hurricane, the effects could be dratsically more severe than Katrina's. Should we be telling New Yorkers to move now? In other words, where does it end? Every place one might choose to live has its inherent dangers; we simply must be aware of them and act in the interest of our safety first and our possessions second. Telling us simply to move is naive and arrogant, not to mention impractical. If we ALL move, where do you "move advocates" suggest we go? To other cities and towns that have too little space and money? Does this mean YOU would welcome anyone -- and I mean anyone -- from our community into yours? Surely you jest.

Some of us here in New Orleans and the rest of the Gulf Coast will continue the rebuilding process because this our home. Some of us will choose to deal with these risks rather than the risks of San Francisco or Oklahoma City. And then some of us will choose to leave this region rather go through this type of experience again. Everyone on the outside looking in should respect the extremely tough decisions we have been forced to make as a result of this devastating event.

Like it or not, it has always been the plan for each person to be respnsible for their evacuation. You should have your own plan. Newspapers and websites publish lists and maps to help you do this. Common sense must prevail!

Growing up on the Gulf Coast, we always acted accordingly to the status of the hurricane. If it was large, Catagory 3+, we left to relatives in Central Mississippi. If it was smaller, we whent to my grandparents house in town.

We bought canned goods and batteries, fuel for stoves and lanterns and checked that everything worked long before hurricane season began.

As one came close, we stored water in tubs and trash cans. Filled the cars, purchased ice for the coolers and filled the freezers.

As it cmae even closer, we put away hazards from the yard so they would not become missles and cause other people damage.

We were always nervouse, but never panicked. We survived, Camile, Frederick, Ivan, and many others. Not once did we expect the government to do anything for us. Thank God for what they did.

Yes, indeed, Shelley P from Littleton, CO, you are correct. It must be nice to live in such a paradise. Nothing bad has ever happened in Littleton, Colorado, right? We should all move there; I hear the schools are top-notch.

My wife and I just returned home from our second stint at disaster relief work in Waveland MS. In September, we spent three days working "behind the scenes" in Mobile Alabama, and then a day at a relief center called Camp Katrina, in Waveland. We were just awed by the amazing damage and destruction that was caused by Katrina. During this trip, we were able to spend a day in New Orleans--specifically the 9th Ward. Once again we were dumbstruck at the damage that Katrina inflicted. As we drove through the Ward, we noticed how much it felt like a ghost town. No street or signal lights were working, no people on the streets, hardly any businesses up and running. We also noticed how much debris was scattered about, and how many homes were totally destroyed. From my observation, it seemed that the folks who lived in that part of NO were forgotten by the federal government, the state of Louisiana, and even the mayor's office. I understand some of the complexities that are behind whether or not the 9th Ward ought to be rebuilt again. Regardless of how those decisions turn out, the people of the 9th Ward need and deserve resources that in my opinion, are currently being misdirected to Iraq, and soon to our Southern border. Let's direct the National Guard to help clean up the 9th Ward along with other coastal communities that so badly need the assistance.

Greetings to all;
Alow me to bring a bit of focus on the "forgotten hurricane", Rita.
Though not much attention has been given to the devastation of property,and disruption of lives by the media or the federal government, many here struggle daily to rebuild,restore and get their lives back in order.
I believee that you always prepare for hurricane season,as many comments have also agreed.Watch the weather reports,keep the car gassed up;fresh batteries in the flashlights and radios.And don't forget to keep a "hurricane box" of ready to eat foods and water,whether you leave or stay.
The key is preparation,but also to either leave early or late; get ahead of the evacuating crowds to beat the traffic,or wait and leave late after the roads clear.I got my family out 2 days before the storm,and made plans to meet them at another location. I left 14 hours before landfall,as the first outer bands of the storm came ashore.Yet I was able to get 120 miles inland before I hit heavy traffic,and made my final destination in Dallas in 7 hours.
With the possibility of loss of properety and life eminent, the only rational choice is to preserve life;take what you can with you,protect and insure the rest, and say a prayerfor your neighbors and self.

To V. Taylor from OFallon, Missouri: Why do we live in a "hopeless place?" Do you live on the New Madrid Fault? Why don't YOU move?!?!?!? Your likelihood of getting swallowed up in the next unpredicted earthquake is even higher than my probability of getting washed away by a hurricane. I pay taxes, I purchase insurance, and I pack up every season anticipating evacuation. Then I pray it won't happen this year!

Everyone please just evacuate. It won't hurt to be on the road for a few days. I believe driving will be alot better then swimming.

Shelley P, I personally would not live in Colorado. Too much snow and cold weather. Not enough water. Not enough guard rails on the roads. And they have grizzly bears that eat people whole. I'll take my chances here, but for a big storm I would leave for a while, if need be.

Hey, Scooter from Houston, the hurricane didn't hit you. No wonder you are in such great shape. Did you watch "It Could Happen Tomorrow" about Houston and get confused?

Dear Mr.Greg of Portland,
I am just a stilly little old Southern Belle. However, I do not mean to sound unkind, but I have to politely disagree with you in respect to our living below sea level. Where did you ever get that idea? We don't, and some of us even live well over 50 miles from the Coast, but were cruelly touched by this truly terrible storm. But I neglect you, and you are so brave and strong and noble. You'll have to forgive me for not understanding how the natural world works. Even though I've been through many hurricanes, I just can't get it through to my little head that I should leave for good. Home, however humble, would always be this place. I shall continue to evacuate as I have done in the past. I wish to thank you, kind sir, for your gallant words of the 31st of May. And I shall consider them; however, I am making no promises. After reading them, maybe now we in South Mississippi will know how to face our future this storm season. What would we ever have done without your wise counsel? And I would be remiss, if I did not implore you to be most dilligent in respect to you and your family's safety in the wilds of the Pacific northwest. From my picture books, I can see it is a most lovely area, but danger lurks there. Keep your family close be at all times, and we will do the same.
With sincerest regards, I remain

If anyone is dumb enough to stay behind let them. They are only taking up space. Let the person who wants to evacuate receive the help and those that stupidly dont can stay behind and try to stay alive. I mean if you arent willing to drive for 6 hours to SAVE YOUR OWN LIFE then do you really even care about anything. I mean really, if you don't care enough to listen to warnings and look at past events and see the hurt and pain that has happened; I'm pretty sure you wouldnt want to go through that youself. So I ask "Why put yourself in a losing situation?" People amaze me. By the way, those of you who have a plan I congratulate you and hope you and your family stay safe.

I live up here in Connecticut. We rarely see hurricanes, but do have brush-by's from whatever remenants are left. We're overdue for a hit - the entire Northeast knows this. Our whole state ALWAYS tells us to be prepared. It's not a matter of IF - its a matter of WHEN. The State already has a plan in place & we always watch the storms. Because of the trough on the East Coast that develops during the summer, it usually pushes the storms out to sea.
We deal enough with snow storms up here, so nobody up here in the Northeast is going to mess with a approaching hurricane & "stay home".

NONE of the homes here in the Northeast are built to any hurricane standards. This whole place would be leveled if a Class 3 or above ever hit the area. Fortunately, the waters here are too cool to support the storms.

Don't be stupid! Get the HELL OUT of the way of the storm! If you leave & your homes don't get hit, be thankful.

You saw what happened to New Orleans & the rest of the Gulf. THAT ALONE should be a wakeup call for everyone on the Eastern Seaboard and the whole Gulf Region. You can be big & brave all you want & stay home. Just let us know what you want written on your tombstone - that is, if we can find your body unless its already fish food.

I'm frankly shocked to hear that people say it's the government's responsibility, it's the state's responsibility, etc. What ever happened to personal responsibility? If you live in a hurricane-prone area get some flood insurance, get hurricane insurance, get a plan, or move. No one is forcing you to live in that area. Or if you decide to stay, then evacuate! Or if you decide not to leave then do us all a favor and stop whining, and crying about how no one helped you. It's not like hurricanes are a random occurence. There is a hurricane season every year. Plan for it!

I am from the Northwest. I live in a mild area. I am many miles south of a volcano that puffs a little steam every once in awhile. Once a year I might feel a little tremmor from an earthquake. No torados, no hurricanes. I love the area where I live. However, I now have a heart for the south. I spent 9 days in Biloxi, Mississippi in the beginning of May. The church I attend has committed to at least 2 years worth of releif help. (We know that it will take much longer for complete recovery) We send volunteers to Biloxi every other week to stay for 1 week. I have no skills in construction. I am a housewife. While in Biloxi I learned how to put mud and tape on sheet rock. Other than being a wife and mother, it was the most rewarding work I have ever done. I met a few of the residents of Biloxi and got to hear their stories. I heard of one house that sheltered 21 people in the attic during the storm, and one that had 11 in their attic. I got to pet a dog that spent 6 hour swimming around the owners house during the storm... and survived. I got to sit on front porches and talk honestly about how they feel and what they've been through. I cried alot! The biggest lesson I've learned is that I am not a judge. Who am I to tell anyone where to go, how to get there, or where they should live? But I am compelled by Gods love of all to go back. I plan to spend another week there in August. Yes it will be unbearably hot and right in the middle of hurricane season. I don't care about that. I do care for the people. What I did as far as the work I did can't even put a dent into what needs to be done, but I'm willing to try to do more. I could sit in my comfortably furnished home, with all my wordly possessions surrounding me, and spout off about the people, the government, and whatever else I'm angry and bitter about, but I choose to do something about it verses just complaining about it.