Hurricane Katrina..The Crisis continues...Disastrous damage and flooding

[bsnyder]

Maybe this would be a question for a separate thread. Or maybe there already IS one.

But after seeing all this footage of people stuck on their roofs (and seeing how few people evacuated my flood-prone neighborhood for Charley), should emergency management officials rethink their stance on mandatory evacuations.

As of right now, they're mandatory in name only. They don't actually force anyone to leave.

But maybe they should. Put people on buses and get them the hell out of danger.

It wouldn't change the flooding situation and the loss of property, but at least people would be safe.

[LoraJ]

If I was in survival mode and had to, I would take stuff from a grocery store if I had no other choice. Although i would probably leave an I.O.U..

[Lisa loves Pooh]

As of right now, they're mandatory in name only. They don't actually force anyone to leave.


They are mandatory in that if you choose to ignore it, you are on your own.

It would take far too long and far too much manpower that probably isn't available to force people out of town or to a shelter.

Unless it is a small town. Forceful evacuation isn't a practical stance in the timeframe available.

[Southern4sure]

My family in Mobile, AL are all fine physically. Im not sure about property, there was a curfew yesterday and I cannot reach them today so far. I think the cell phone companies are having a hard time keeping up with the demand because of the down towers and such. It is so hard watching the news channels.

[BriarfoxinWA]

Just wanted to add that my thoughts and prays are with all of you that have loved ones in the area. I grew up in Picayune MS and made many trips to Slidell and NO with my parents. I have a friend that lives (lived :sad: ) in Pass Christian...I hope she evacuated - they usually do but I haven't heard from her...

[ilovepcot]

Where looting is concerned, I heard on one of the news channels that the National Guard has seen people taking things from area stores but have not bothered trying to arrest them. The situation is SOOOO DIRE and *much* of what people are taking is necessary to survive.

[Southern4sure]

Even though looting is wrong, if I were in the same situation, I know I would do whatever it took to take care of and feed my family. Looting the electronics stores and such is wrong...no exceptions.

[MoniqueU]

Reports of bodies floating in the 9th street ward canal in New Orleans.

[cheyita]

Question for those of you familiar with the NO area - what do they mean by a parish? Is it like a district? I only know the word in terms of the church, but it seems obvious to me these are not that type of parish.

[wvjules]

From the breaking news msnbc.com homepage

Reuters: Hundreds feared dead in Biloxi, Miss., city spokesman says

[Southern4sure]

Question for those of you familiar with the NO area - what do they mean by a parish? Is it like a district? I only know the word in terms of the church, but it seems obvious to me these are not that type of parish.


It is my understanding it is districts.

[ducklite]

Even though looting is wrong, if I were in the same situation, I know I would do whatever it took to take care of and feed my family. Looting the electronics stores and such is wrong...no exceptions.

My husband and I were discussing looting this morning. W e decided that under the circumstances, people taking items like water, canned food, diapers, garbage bags, etc. are acting out of the need to survive, and we don't think any court in the world would give them more than a suspended sentence. People walking out of Best Buy with a wide screen should be shot on sight.

Anne

[Southern4sure]

Has anyone seen the oil platform that smacked into the Cochran Bridge in Mobile, AL? This bridge is only a few years old. DH helped design that bridge.

[Deb in IA]

Question for those of you familiar with the NO area - what do they mean by a parish? Is it like a district? I only know the word in terms of the church, but it seems obvious to me these are not that type of parish.


I think it is like a county.

[Galahad]

It is my understanding it is districts.


A Parrish in Louisiana is the same a a county in most other parts of the country I think.

[MoniqueU]

My husband and I were discussing looting this morning. W e decided that under the circumstances, people taking items like water, canned food, diapers, garbage bags, etc. are acting out of the need to survive, and we don't think any court in the world would give them more than a suspended sentence. People walking out of Best Buy with a wide screen should be shot on sight.

Anne
I agree. I am not going to let my kids go hungry or thirsty if I can prevent it even if I have to resort to dire circumstances in an emergency (things I otherwise wouldn't dream of) however I wouldn't be looking at it as an oppurtunity to pick up the latest Ipod or do some early Christmas shopping at a 5 finger discount. :rolleyes:

[Galahad]

:wave2: I think it is like a county.

[Cyndo723]

A Parish is the same thing as a county in any other state.

[ducklite]

It is my understanding it is districts.

Parish is synonymous for "county"

Anne

[MoniqueU]

They will now be evacuating patients from hospitals in boats.

[cheyita]

Thank you everyone for the parish explanation!

[Southern4sure]

My husband and I were discussing looting this morning. W e decided that under the circumstances, people taking items like water, canned food, diapers, garbage bags, etc. are acting out of the need to survive, and we don't think any court in the world would give them more than a suspended sentence. People walking out of Best Buy with a wide screen should be shot on sight.

Anne


::yes::

Having gone through several hurricanes, the last thing on my mind is breaking into an electronics store or any kind of business that wouldnt have food or the necessities needed.

[MoniqueU]

People are panicing in the streets of new orleans, there are people still being brought in but it is getting more risky because of rising water.
This according to Fox.

[Planogirl]

Latest from SunHerald.com:


- Runaway oil platform smashes, closes Mobile bridge
- Some bodies may never be found
- Massive damage to east side of Biloxi
- Grand Casino Biloxi washed across U.S. 90
- Many died on Point Cadet, at the SE tip of Biloxi's peninsula
- Phones out, power gone, roads demolished
- Major bridges to three coastal counties demolished
- Looting a major problem
- Katrina shattered high-water marks set by Camille

There's a mention of that oil platform again. From what I understand, it was drydocked and broke lose but aren't those things huge? I can't imagine the power needed to move it.

[palmtreegirl]

They're showing the Coast Guard helicopters rescuing people off roofs of their homes in New Orleans on CNN.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

Update on Tulane for our DISers who've asked for info.

Tulane University

Current Status
August 30, 11:45 a.m.

Dear Tulane Faculty, Staff, Students and Friends:
As you all know by now, New Orleans and the surrounding parishes were severely damaged by Hurricane Katrina. The physical damage to the area, including Tulane’s campuses, was extensive.

Unfortunately, conditions in the city continue to deteriorate, making it virtually impossible to begin recovery efforts. On a very positive note, in Tulane’s case, we are very thankful that all of our people are safe, including all the students and staff who evacuated to Jackson, Mississippi.

We have started the process of assessing the condition of our campus facilities and determining how long it will take us to reopen. This assessment process will take days because many of the answers will be determined by how quickly the city and its services become operational. The situation is further complicated by the fact that there is no power in the city, water levels continue to rise, all city roads are blocked, and the vast majority of our workforce had to leave the parish as part of the mandatory evacuation order. It is unclear at this time when people will be allowed to return to the city.

Given the uncertainties, we cannot determine at this time when employees and students should return to campus. We will do the best we can to keep you appraised of our situation and progress.

Also, I want to remind you that the university’s main website is not operating at this time and we do not know when we will be able to bring it back on-line. Due to this, the Tulane email system is not functioning. However, this website (emergency.tulane.edu) will continue to have the most up-to-date information about university operations and the Tulane Alert Line at 1-877-862-8080 and 1-504-862-8080 will also have the most current information available. These communication vehicles are the best source of information about Tulane since phone and cell service are unreliable.

I realize that you have many more questions than we have answers at this time. However, I’m sure you understand the complexity and difficulty of the situation we face. Nonetheless, we are determined to move forward as quickly as possible and make Tulane University an even stronger and healthier institution. We have been in New Orleans for 171 years and we look forward to another century in this great city.

Scott S. Cowen

[totalia]

Whew, few minutes away can be a good thing.

Louisiana is still under Napoleonic Law (or a rather twisted version thereof). Thats why some things may seem odd to others. A Parrish is the same thing as a County.

[Geoff_M]

From what I understand, it was drydocked and broke lose but aren't those things huge?

You could say that...

http://www.foxnews.com/photo_essay/photoessay_568_images/083005_katrina14.jpg

Aug. 30: People gather to watch an oil rig that broke apart in drydock during Hurricane Katrina in Mobile, Ala.

[Planogirl]

Wow Geoff! No wonder the bridge is closed.

[roger_ramjet]

You could say that...

http://www.foxnews.com/photo_essay/photoessay_568_images/083005_katrina14.jpg

Aug. 30: People gather to watch an oil rig that broke apart in drydock during Hurricane Katrina in Mobile, Ala.


That is one heck of a big thing to drift down a river. That's pretty awesome power right there.

[bsnyder]

Update on Tulane for our DISers who've asked for info.

I know this is trivial in the big scheme of things, but I have been thinking of the displaced students, and parents, amidst all the tragedy unfolding.

My older son's school (Stetson Unversity) was shut down for two weeks last year, after Frances. It was hugely disruptive, and we housed 6 of his friends here at home during that time. Several of them were from out of state, and I talked to their worried parents. Two weeks is a big chunk of a college semester. It's clear the Tulane and Loyola students won't be starting the fall semester any time soon, if at all. :( :( :(

My younger son had Tulane as his second choice school and he'd be there now as a sophomore if he hadn't gotten equal scholarship money at his first choice school. I'm breathing a sigh of relief, even if it means he's much further away from home than he would have been in New Orleans.

And I feel for the students who have had their education totally disrupted.

[MoniqueU]

CBS is reporting they are kicking people out of hotels in the FQ. I think some people are walking to the convention center.
I saw pictures on fox of canal and water is up to thigh level at least.

[CarolA]

FYI.

I have not called this number and have no idea if it will work but for questions on Tulane MEDICAL Center only you might try 615.344.9551

That is the number for HCA. HCA is a partial owner of the Medical center. I heard from a friend that they are scrambling. They have patients there who probably will not survive an evacaution....

[sodaseller]

You could say that...

http://www.foxnews.com/photo_essay/photoessay_568_images/083005_katrina14.jpg

Aug. 30: People gather to watch an oil rig that broke apart in drydock during Hurricane Katrina in Mobile, Ala.
I must say that clears up one matter that had perplexed me. Earlier reports had referred to two drillings rigs loosened by Katrina. I had thought they were referring to rigs deployed in the Gulf. While fully appreciating the awesome physics a storm like this involves, I was still disbelieving that it could unmoor a deployed rig and drive it miles to the coast. This makes clear that that did not happen

[Southern4sure]

You could say that...

http://www.foxnews.com/photo_essay/photoessay_568_images/083005_katrina14.jpg

Aug. 30: People gather to watch an oil rig that broke apart in drydock during Hurricane Katrina in Mobile, Ala.

The oil platform broke loose from a local shipyard a few miles from the bridge. It was anchored for repairs when it broke loose. Local news says the platform moved against the current.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

And I feel for the students who have had their education totally disrupted.

On some discussion board somewhere---some are guessing that at some schools--this will effectively wipe out a semester are more.

And others are speculating how crammed in the schools would try to squeeze in classes with what time would remain to allow some semblance of on-time completion of course work.

It isn't trivial. Just think of it--not only the colleges...an entire school system in many parishes and counties will be affected by this.

It is one thing when say it is one school that is destroyed---quite another when there are several destroyed and several immmersed with water. It has a dramatic affect.

[lisatradingspaces]

They actually did just show one on TV that was out in the Gulf and brought in several miles to the coast. Truely amazing.


I must say that clears up one matter that had perplexed me. Earlier reports had referred to two drillings rigs loosened by Katrina. I had thought they were referring to rigs deployed in the Gulf. While fully appreciating the awesome physics a storm like this involves, I was still disbelieving that it could unmoor a deployed rig and drive it miles to the coast. This makes clear that that did not happen

[MoniqueU]

http://www.ezpic.org/images/neworleans/cityview.jpg Picture of the flooding around downtown New Orleans and the Superdome.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

Jefferson Parish Schools "might" be back in session by December 1st.

that is how bad the damage is in that parish.

[dturner]

http://www.ezpic.org/images/neworleans/cityview.jpg Picture of the flooding around downtown New Orleans and the Superdome.

Holy Cow!!! It's hard to imagine that I'm sitting at my desk at work looking outside at the sun and there are thousands of people without a home - just doesn't seem right.

[MoniqueU]

Govenor is coming up with a plan to evacuate the rest of the people in New Orleans. I missed most of what was said can anyone else fill in what the details are?

[Kitty 34]

The governor is saying that the French quarter is not flooding. I thought it was? :confused3

[arminnie]

Anybody know about uptown.........near Tulane? Any info you have would be great...........

We have sporadic contact with a guy who stayed near Carrollton and St. Charles - not too bad there as of 2 pm Tuesday. That is just a few blocks from Tulane. He has been out walking around.

He may take his bike and go further into the city - will report more if he does.

We have an evacuee staying with us - lots of people from LA are now here in Little Rock - plus several in Memphis.

One of a the biggest problems for these people is that they have very little money and were only making a little over minimum wage. And their jobs and homes are probably gone.

A band that was playing a gig here in LR is now stranded - they probably have no homes and don't have more jobs lined up here.

And this is just a tiny microcosm of what is happening to so many. No homes, no jobs, no money. It's just awful. We are trying to coordinate things here for those we are in contact with.

I know it is even worse for those who did not even have the means to get out of town.

We are over 450 miles north of New Orleans - over 500 miles (and a big job through Memphis) if you take the interstate. If we have this much here - can you imagine what others cities in the direct route are dealing with.

Already some reports of price gouging in Memphis.

My dad had major surgery (abdominal aneurism) today so I have to go back to the hospital - which is where my sister and I have been since 5:30 this morning.

I have a cell phone with a 504 area code. I can use it to place outgoing calls, but I can't receive any calls on it.

More later.

Tricia

[MoniqueU]

The governor is saying that the French quarter is not flooding. I thought it was? :confused3
I saw video of it flooding. Nothing like up to the rooftops but definetly over a foot or so of water.

[arminnie]

Couldn't figure out why I hadn't gotten that email as I am on Scott's list and then realized that he has my Tulane email forwarding address - doesn't work.

Fortunately someone else forwarded it to me, but I saw Lisa Loves Pooh's post first - so thanks again.

[arminnie]

The person staying with us owns a small neighborhood market - she expect that it will be emptied. I don't know if insurance covers looting or not. They were just barely getting by (not even able to pay themselves minimum wage) so this will really hurt.

Of course they actually prefer that people remove food that is just going to spoil - easier to clean up.

Most of my friends are more worried about their homes being ransacked by looters than they are worried about the flooding.

I agree it's one thing to take necessities to live from a store, but it is a totally different thing to break into someone's home and steal all of their belongings while they are gone.

[MoniqueU]

The governor wants to evacuate the entire rest of New Orleans including the people at the Superdome according to Fox. Not sure how or where she wants to take them. This is due to deteriorating conditions.

[dturner]

The governor wants to evacuate the entire rest of New Orleans including the people at the Superdome according to Fox. Not sure how or where she wants to take them. This is due to deteriorating conditions.

I just saw the breaking news email - I guess this is far from over and seems to be getting worse - those poor people!!!

[CarolA]

DId you hear the sherriff telling people to get the "heck out of town" (He used words not allowed on the DIS)

[wdw4us2]

The governor wants to evacuate the entire rest of New Orleans including the people at the Superdome according to Fox. Not sure how or where she wants to take them. This is due to deteriorating conditions.

More than likely the National Guard will set up tent cities like they did after Andrew in 1992, as soon as they find a suitable location.

[dturner]

DId you hear the sherriff telling people to get the "heck out of town" (He used words not allowed on the DIS)

WOW!! Am wondering if New Orleans and the rest of the gulf coast will ever be the same - I'm thinking not.
It still boggles my mind, so much destruction!!!

[CarolA]

Well the station Lisa has me listening to says there are 60,000 in the Super Dome. There were only 10,000 during the storm so that would mean about 50,000 have showed up... WOW!!!!

[Kitty 34]

WOW!! Am wondering if New Orleans and the rest of the gulf coast will ever be the same - I'm thinking not.
It still boggles my mind, so much destruction!!!


I agree. It's so sad. :(

[angey77]

Hey all.
Latest is some levees are giving way and some more water spilled into the city. As far as the aerials, not to downplay anything, but from the air, a lot of places look a lot worse than they are. Case in point, Lakeside Mall looks to be surrounded by feet of water from above, but when they zoom to people walking in the parking lot, you can see the parking lines clearly under the water. Its still bad, but there is some hope in some places, as far as depth of the water and if it has truly made it into houses or if it is mostly street flooding. Also, much of what I saw today for Slidell, they were showing areas that typically had water, as it was a swamp area or the lake itself. Believe me, it is bad, very bad in many sections, but I do think the media makes a spectacle of things when they don't really tell people what they are looking at and what it normally looks like.
The one thing I am truly worried about is the Super Dome. They have been delivering ready-to-eat meals and there are many stranded tourists in there, along with 20K residents. Things may get ugly there and I think that is the scariest.
Also, LSU has called off its football season-opener Saturday, as much of the campus facilities will be used for shelters for our fellow Louisianians. Baton Rouge is crazy right now with all of our adopted residents.

[Shutterbug]

Click here for aerial video of the Mississippi Gulf Coast
Just total destruction....Floating casinos now on the other side of the road on top of homes, 18 wheelers thrown about like toys, bridges gone
http://www.wlbt.com/

[ladycollector]

They just showed Dauphin Island and the houses look like little toys...they've been scattered about the beach but many look to be "intact".

[MoniqueU]

New Orleans without drinkable water with water main break. It just gets worse and worse for them.

[Free4Life11]

I just feel sick because the more I hear, the worse I seem to get. It's such a beautiful, sunny day out here, people are out walking, and it's hard to imagine such devastation.

How do you even begin to put your life back together? I was thinking about something that most of us take for granted -- USPS. Imagine not getting your mail for weeks?!? What do you do....bills, letters, etc. What happens to people who can't pay their credit card bills, yet don't have an "address" or "phone." Who would the creditors go after, if the companies are heartless enough to not give these people a break (and trust me, it wouldn't surprise me.) I know this is all trivial, but I just can't imagine how you put your life back together. What if you lost all your important documents, SS card, license, birth cert. in the flooding?

[Lisa loves Pooh]

The Algiers Side of NOLA (westbank--for perspective--it is across the river from Canal Street)....the water has receded and the river is normal---it is outside the bowl.



They are showing on WWL a bunch of people on the roof of a large structure.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

I just feel sick because the more I hear, the worse I seem to get. It's such a beautiful, sunny day out here, people are out walking, and it's hard to imagine such devastation.

How do you even begin to put your life back together? I was thinking about something that most of us take for granted -- USPS. Imagine not getting your mail for weeks?!? What do you do....bills, letters, etc. What happens to people who can't pay their credit card bills, yet don't have an "address" or "phone." Who would the creditors go after, if the companies are heartless enough to not give these people a break (and trust me, it wouldn't surprise me.) I know this is all trivial, but I just can't imagine how you put your life back together. What if you lost all your important documents, SS card, license, birth cert. in the flooding?


I'm going to post a separate thread--b/c I am really wondering this as well.

[Beauty]

Free4life I understand how you feel. I'm only an hour away from complete power outage and here I am trying to plan my son's 14th b'day party. I just feel awful carrying on with life when all of the devestation is so close. Then we also have our Disney trip in 2 weeks. I feel almost guilty for going on with life as normal.

[SillyMe]

I just feel sick because the more I hear, the worse I seem to get. It's such a beautiful, sunny day out here, people are out walking, and it's hard to imagine such devastation.

How do you even begin to put your life back together? I was thinking about something that most of us take for granted -- USPS. Imagine not getting your mail for weeks?!? What do you do....bills, letters, etc. What happens to people who can't pay their credit card bills, yet don't have an "address" or "phone." Who would the creditors go after, if the companies are heartless enough to not give these people a break (and trust me, it wouldn't surprise me.) I know this is all trivial, but I just can't imagine how you put your life back together. What if you lost all your important documents, SS card, license, birth cert. in the flooding?
I was wondering the same thing today.

[miss missy]

There is a thread on the looting---but even if they need it....it is still illegal. They can flag down authorities if they are truly in need. But for the most part....as part of hurricane follow up--looting is not permitted under any circumstance.

come on... people are dying there! It's not like they can go home and get diapers, ect. gosh

[Lisa loves Pooh]

come on... people are dying there! It's not like they can go home and get diapers, ect. gosh

There's another thread if you wish to debate it.

[cajunmommy]

Don't know if this has been posted yet - haven't gone through the whole thread - but it goes from bad to worse. Word from a N.O. parish councilman that there are confirmed reports of a hostage situation in Orleans Parish Prison.

Reports are saying there are families of evacuees who were at the prison as well.

[ilovepcot]

Sorry, can't find the thread about credit cards, bills etc. I do know that after Hurricane Andrew most FL residents (even areas not hit) got letters from all creditors to contact them about making other arrangements concerning payment due to unavoidable hardship. Fortunately, we didn't need to pursue that. These poor folks, however, can't even be reached with a letter from creditors but arrangements will have to be made to help them. It's pretty obvious (due to their address) why they will be deliquent!

[Luv2Roam]

CNN just reported someone purposely jumped to their death in the Dome too.

[binny]

ok another question that will seem trivial but... where does everything go? I know destroyed, I know ruined, but I think about things like safes and the like where people would keep important papers, seems to me like that would add a whole other level of concern of your documents falling into the wrongs hands and identity theft and fraud KWIM? I just keep thinking of stuff floating everywhere, it has to land somewhere right?

I know thats just another thing at this point but there is so much chance of a second wave of disaster as far as that goes.

[ilovepcot]

This is an email I just got from a friend in Baton Rouge.


* The water situation is dire. It's contaminated with raw sewage, oil, gasoline, and rotting stuff is not going to help.

The commissioner of agriculture said that there are 150,000 head of cattle in the lower parishes. He overflew the area today and said he didn't see a single bovine. He hopes that they were moved out. I can just about guarantee that 150,000 cattle were not moved out of there. I expect carcasses to start floating up.

CoA is worried about cholera. It's going to be a third-world situation. There are not enough places to house all these people over the long run (apartments, etc.). FEMA is going to have a real challenge. *

[Lisa loves Pooh]

binny--I guess those who left probably need to order credit reports--and cancel what they do not have in their possession...and be extra viligent for life.

[MagicKingdom05]

I just go home from work and it seems to get worse and worse.

[binny]

binny--I guess those who left probably need to order credit reports--and cancel what they do not have in their possession...and be extra viligent for life.


I would think so too and I know its the last thing on their minds right now and rightly so but I was thinking about it last night. I mean there are so many unscrupulous people out there that just seem to la in wait for a disaster to happen and then they strike. :(


I am praying so hard for everyone affected!


May God be with you all!!!

[angey77]

First off, for the looting, I can see going for needed items to survive, but when you raid the ATHLETIC SHOE STORE and go BACk to make sure the shoes fit you, that is where we have problems! And yes, that is happening.
Also, as far as the billing, a lot of people have automatic bill pay. We, along with our friends who evactuated, moved money from savings to checking, just in case banks and local companies started to have problems. Most people take important documentation, pictures, etc. with them when leaving, or have them in safe deposit boxes.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

Just saw the levvy breech---I guess it is the big flood gates---one is missing.


And a doggy is just getting rescued---poor doggy!

[floridafam]

Has any military beyond the National Guard been called in?

I think the situation calls for Nat. Guard and Army, at least.

[MagicKingdom05]

I the way home from work I was listening to a call in talk show and one of the callers basically blamed the people dieing on the officals for not warning people early enough and insisted that they should be brought up on charges. The host tried to explain that as early as friday 3 days before the strike that the mayors and such were telling people to leave because this was going to be bad. Even while he tried to explain how this all came down she was livid and insisted that those people who stayed at there homes never had a choice and were left to die then she hung up after swearing. The interesting thing is when they brought her on the first thing they asked was did you know anyone who was in the storm and she said no.

I can understand emotions being high, but to blame what happened to some of these people on the officals who IMOP did a great job getting the warning out and probably saved the lives of thousands and thousands of people in the process. We all knew that people were going die, but to blame officals for it is unjustified.

[HTH]

This is absolutely terrible. :(

I just wanted to say that I am thinking about everyone in this horrible situation. :sad:

[Lisa loves Pooh]

I the way home from work I was listening to a call in talk show and one of the callers basically blamed the people dieing on the officals for not warning people early enough and insisted that they should be brought up on charges.

I knew this was going to happen. People will always look to someone to blame. When you live in a mobile home, coastal area, or flood zone--you KNOW that you are in an evacuation area. You KNOW. Media spends plenty of time in prep of hurricane season.

It is noones fault but for the people who chose not to heed warning.
(not counting those who didn't have a choice--but even they were given an option).

[Talking Hands]

I'm sure they will call in the Army. I know after Andrew we had them all over the place. They set up the tent cities, had food service, MASH units, supply pick up, phone banks to call long distance at no cost and more. We had a unit at the school a block and half from me and the high school about 6 blocks north of me housed the MASH unit, food service, phone banks and supply pickup point. The Coast Guard Station was the central location to pick up mail as there was no mail delivery. Military patrolled the streets for looters as well as first aid. MASH unit was a God send as all my medications were destroyed and my bp went through the roof, plus my daughter had a nail go though her shoe into her foot. They ended up giving us all fresh tetanus shots just in case and providing me with meds for a month including medicine to bring my bp into control and face masks for my daughter who has asthma to use while helping clean up.

[tekmom]

I believe that Arkansas is sending National Guard to help in Mississippi. Alabama, also, is sending National Guard. As much of Mississippi's guard is in Iraq, it's very generous of them to help out.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

Has any military beyond the National Guard been called in?

I think the situation calls for Nat. Guard and Army, at least.

Yes--they've shown the trucks before.

The key right now are the rescues--and it is anybody who has a boat that is doing that.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

Just now on WML---and they put it in all caps:

****ALL RESIDENTS ON THE EAST BANK OF ORLEANS AND JEFFERSON REMAINING IN THE METRO AREA ARE BEING TOLD TO EVACUATE AS EFFORTS TO SANDBAG THE LEVEE BREAK HAVE ENDED. THE PUMPS IN THAT AREA ARE EXPECTED TO FAIL SOON AND 12-15 FEET OF WATER ARE EXPECTED IN THE ENTIRE EAST BANK.****

[LoraJ]

Just now on WML---and they put it in all caps:

****ALL RESIDENTS ON THE EAST BANK OF ORLEANS AND JEFFERSON REMAINING IN THE METRO AREA ARE BEING TOLD TO EVACUATE AS EFFORTS TO SANDBAG THE LEVEE BREAK HAVE ENDED. THE PUMPS IN THAT AREA ARE EXPECTED TO FAIL SOON AND 12-15 FEET OF WATER ARE EXPECTED IN THE ENTIRE EAST BANK.****


:(

I was just looking at a map and my BF's parents live a mile or so south of where the 17th street canal ends. Around where Tulane is.

[Luv2Roam]

I am sure many saw a blip on the weather channel before Katrina hot where they were interviewing a woman who lived in NO. She was holding her 6 month old child.
They were asking her why she was not leaving.
She first cited school, then that she had a baby to take care of. Then she said she had no car or money.
The last two I can understand. It's sad, but if you don't have it, you don't have it.
But I thought at that time, her school will probably be gone, along with her home, and possibly her and the child will die. (And not to sound harsh, but I would think because you do have a 6 month year old for that reason alone a mother would do what they could to leave -- with the baby. Not use that as an excuse for staying.)
They were warned. And I think they had dodged so many bullets in the past, and had no funds or transportation they were just in denial.
I hope that woman and her baby made it.

[angey77]

And a doggy is just getting rescued---poor doggy!

YAY! At least some good news.
The local news was disgusted with an official from Jefferson Parish. He said "There will be many stray cats and dogs. Remember, it is you against them for survival."
WHAT A JERK! I'm guessing he finds trash and rats tasty.

[Luv2Roam]

Someone at work today told me that there is a business who has several of those air boats like they use here in Florida. There are several people volunteering by taking time off and taking these boats to LA. They have to pay all their own expenses, in addition to their time from the business. But are happy to do so.
They say those boats will be great in NO as they ride on top of the water, not going down into the water, and they can go right up to the houses or whatever they need.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

YAY! At least some good news.
The local news was disgusted with an official from Jefferson Parish. He said "There will be many stray cats and dogs. Remember, it is you against them for survival."
WHAT A JERK! I'm guessing he finds trash and rats tasty.

Actually--it is kind of true.

The animals left behind are strays--not every animal had a home to begin with. In "wild animal" terms--it could get ugly/dangerous for a humans.

It may sound jerky---but it is probably the blunt truth.



That poor dog was soooo tired once they got it in the boat. No telling how long that poor thing was swimming.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

Someone at work today told me that there is a business who has several of those air boats like they use here in Florida. There are several people volunteering by taking time off and taking these boats to LA. They have to pay all their own expenses, in addition to their time from the business. But are happy to do so.
They say those boats will be great in NO as they ride on top of the water, not going down into the water, and they can go right up to the houses or whatever they need.

I saw this on the news last night. I thought it was a great idea.

[MagicKingdom05]

Lisa loves Pooh,

With food hopefully beable to be brought in from out of state and such, we won't start seeing something think that happen.

[LoraJ]

My boyfriend still hasn't heard from his little sister. He won't feel better until he does. He knows they were heading more north in LA, but haven't heard anything because the phones are down. His dad has been calling there every 15 minutes.

[Luv2Roam]

No doubt America will do everything they can to help these peopel and the states out. But what is even best at this point?

[Lisa loves Pooh]

No doubt America will do everything they can to help these peopel and the states out. But what is even best at this point?

Help those who have evacuated if they are in your community I think.

And cash donations if you have any to spare to the Red Cross.

[Shutterbug]

MSNBC is showing that 22 min video of the Gulfport destruction.
:sad2:

[palmtreegirl]

MSNBC is showing that 22 min video of the Gulfport destruction.
:sad2:

It's unbelievable! :(

[Luv2Roam]

Thanks shutterbug.

[angey77]

Actually--it is kind of true.

The animals left behind are strays--not every animal had a home to begin with. In "wild animal" terms--it could get ugly/dangerous for a humans.

It may sound jerky---but it is probably the blunt truth.



That poor dog was soooo tired once they got it in the boat. No telling how long that poor thing was swimming.


Jefferson is not a huge place for stray animals. The place is overly populated and many of the people there just left their pets to die. Sad, but that is true. Last time there were evacuations, there were reports of dogs CHAINED TO TREES to "ride out the storm" while the family left. Horrible if you ask me. All I can see from this statement is panic-mode, and people just being cruel to drowning pets (imagine if they would have had those thoughts for that dog you saw rescued).
Hopefully, these people are smart enough to tell the difference between an animal in need and one in aggression. A statement like this from an official is just not needed, and even the newscasters sneered at this.

[ducklite]

ok another question that will seem trivial but... where does everything go? I know destroyed, I know ruined, but I think about things like safes and the like where people would keep important papers, seems to me like that would add a whole other level of concern of your documents falling into the wrongs hands and identity theft and fraud KWIM? I just keep thinking of stuff floating everywhere, it has to land somewhere right?

I know thats just another thing at this point but there is so much chance of a second wave of disaster as far as that goes.

We have a safe that's bolted to our floor. If we had to evecuate, I'd take the contents out of it an put it into a smaller more portable safe to take with me.

Anne

[Lisa loves Pooh]

In my tour of the latest photos--I have seen my first body. So sad. And this poor woman is floating near a bunch of trash.


Also so the I-10 over lake pontchetrain. Looks like a lego bridge fell apart :(.

[MagicKingdom05]

I just saw the overhead video and I'm just shocked. To think that this could have been worse if the storm hadn't lost strength and seeing the devistation is amazing.

[ducklite]

I knew this was going to happen. People will always look to someone to blame. When you live in a mobile home, coastal area, or flood zone--you KNOW that you are in an evacuation area. You KNOW. Media spends plenty of time in prep of hurricane season.

It is noones fault but for the people who chose not to heed warning.
(not counting those who didn't have a choice--but even they were given an option).

This is crazy. I agree, people had time to leave. We started planning for what we call Katrina 2 Friday night, after we determined that the situation in Southern FL from Katrina 1 was fairly under control (for what I work on during disasters).

Our biggest frustration now is first, where to begin, and second, at this time we can't even begin to begin assessing NOLA. The rescue groups are headed into affected areas of MS and AL tomorrow.

Anne

[Michelina]

They had to shoot a poor seal that washed up in a parking lot from a marina animal zoo. People were trying to keep it wet today with buckets of water but there wasn't anywhere to take it... :guilty:

[Luv2Roam]

Those poor people are being rescued. Little do they realize where they are being taken is just a step up from the he** they were in. Heart breaking.
How can this not make us so thankful for what we have?

[ducklite]

They are begging for boats to rescue people with in NOLA.

Anne

[binny]

We have a safe that's bolted to our floor. If we had to evecuate, I'd take the contents out of it an put it into a smaller more portable safe to take with me.

Anne

and thats the logical move. I just wonder if, in panic mode, that would be everyones first thought.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

Of little importance...but it looks like my old house may have been spared water damage. I bring it up b/c I really don't get it. It is in Algiers--just across the river from downtown. And kind of adjacent to Jefferson Parish with all of its flood problems. Don't know why Algiers is dry---but for the most part it is.

[ducklite]

and thats the logical move. I just wonder if, in panic mode, that would be everyones first thought.

Think about it this way--if I had to leave due to a fire or tornado, I'd be able to retreive the contents of my safe within 24 hours or so. If I had to leave due to a hurricane, I'd have at least 24 hours to evacuate, and certainly wouldn't panic, but would methodically pack the car to go.

Anne

[Lisa loves Pooh]

They say some "horrific news" is being shared right now on http://www.wwltv.com/perl/common/video/wmPlayer.pl?title=beloint_khou&props=livenoad


They are saying that the uptown area (St. Charles--the big houses!!!!) is going to get 9 feet of water....French Quarter is going.

They are saying to take the CCC to westbank expressway to get out of dodge.

[ducklite]

They say some "horrific news" is being shared right now on http://www.wwltv.com/perl/common/video/wmPlayer.pl?title=beloint_khou&props=livenoad


They are saying that the uptown area (St. Charles--the big houses!!!!) is going to get 9 feet of water....French Quarter is going.

They are saying to take the CCC to westbank expressway to get out of dodge.

OMG! I just called my friend, he's going to call his dad who is still in the house--yes, it's one of those big houses on St. Charles. He has three floors plus an attic, so he should be OK in that respect, but I guess the family breathed a sigh of relief too quickly.

Anne

[Lisa loves Pooh]

OMG! I just called my friend, he's going to call his dad who is still in the house--yes, it's one of those big houses on St. Charles. He has three floors plus an attic, so he should be OK in that respect, but I guess the family breathed a sigh of relief too quickly.

Anne

They said if they stay--to get to the roof for rescue.

The bowl will fill up unless something changes (and that something would be nature--b/c man can't stop it).

[bsnyder]

The WWL site that was posted on an earlier post....did I just hear the Mayor correctly? He's saying the levee breech wasn't fixed because of a miscommunication?

[ducklite]

The WWL site that was posted on an earlier post....did I just hear the Mayor correctly? He's saying the levee breech wasn't fixed because of a miscommunication?

That's my understanding--there were supposed to be sandbags delivered there and they never showed up.

Anne

[ducklite]

They said if they stay--to get to the roof for rescue.

The bowl will fill up unless something changes (and that something would be nature--b/c man can't stop it).

The water would have to get to about 32 feet before he had to get onto the roof, they have a three story home.

Anne

[bsnyder]

That's my understanding--there were supposed to be sandbags delivered there and they never showed up.

Anne

OMG! That's unbelievable.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

The water would have to get to about 32 feet before he had to get onto the roof, they have a three story home, plus an attic.

Anne


That's fine--but they will be completely stranded. I'm just reporting what is being said and it would be best to communicate that to your friend.

the water is going to be severely contaminated. I'm sure just being around it could be a problem.

[bsnyder]

Okay, I really don't understand something here. They are talking about different measures they want to try to repair the levee breech, bringing in concrete barriers instead of sandbags?. Why didn't they have this stuff ready and waiting, where they'd need it?

I know nothing, zilch about engineering, so I'm not casting stones at anyone. But it seems to me if everyone was worried about the levees being breeched and the "bowl" filling up, that it would have been priority one.

I'm sure I"m missing the big picture here.

[LoraJ]

That's fine--but they will be completely stranded. I'm just reporting what is being said and it would be best to communicate that to your friend.

the water is going to be severely contaminated. I'm sure just being around it could be a problem.


Actually, the mayor had just said that if they have a 3 story home that they may be better off in the top level.

[ducklite]

That's fine--but they will be completely stranded. I'm just reporting what is being said and it would be best to communicate that to your friend.

the water is going to be severely contaminated. I'm sure just being around it could be a problem.

Oh trust me, his son (my friend is well aware) as is my friends mom. There was more than a bit of drama when he decided to stay while she went to pick up her mom and evacuate before the storm hit. My friend said that his mom had been saying "the bowl would fill someday" for years now.

I just hope he's OK due to his stubborness.

Anne

[ducklite]

Actually, the mayor had just said that if they have a 3 story home that they may be better off in the top level.

And that's exactly what he's going to do--stay up in the top story. He's got enough provisions to live like a hermit up there for three years according to my friend--and knowing what I know about this man, I absolutely believe it LOL!

Anne

[ducklite]

Okay, I really don't understand something here. They are talking about different measures they want to try to repair the levee breech, bringing in concrete barriers instead of sandbags?. Why didn't they have this stuff ready and waiting, where they'd need it?

I know nothing, zilch about engineering, so I'm not casting stones at anyone. But it seems to me if everyone was worried about the levees being breeched and the "bowl" filling up, that it would have been priority one.

I'm sure I"m missing the big picture here.

You reinforce with sandbags, rebuild with concrete barriers, two different things.

Anne

[bsnyder]

You reinforce with sandbags, rebuild with concrete barriers, two different things.

Anne

But it would seem to me you prepare for the worst case scenario.

[bsnyder]

And no doubt the finger pointing over all of this is going to be monumental.

[CourtasanSatine]

I'm getting emails all during the day from friends(all I've met via the web in RPG's) who attend Tulane,NOU(University of New Orleans) and LSU. They are not even sure if this term is worth saving at this point and I'm not sure what to tell them. But my tech college is trying to get a fund raiser going and I may send a care package to a few of the friends

What would be nice to put into the packages?

[Lisa loves Pooh]

::yes::

The big thing afterwards is the incredible amount of patience these people will have. It took me several hours to get the all clear to go home and that was tough--this will be an entire city that just can't go home.


And who am I to be talking of patience. That was nothing!!!

[MagicKingdom05]

True.

[LoraJ]

I want to send a care package to my boyfriend's parents. Just a bunch of books, cards, magazines, snacks and some pics I took of us all last week in Vegas. They are in the middle of no-where TX right now safe and sound, but I can't imagine what they are going through.

[CarolA]

Well, I am not an engineer but having seen work on dams and locks.. it's not that simple. Ideally you have LOW water when you do this otherwise you are fighting the water. SO even if EVERY thing is sitting there ready to go you are still fighting mother nature and in the words of of Peter Mayle "mother nature always wins, she's stronger and has more determination then I do" When a levy is breached you are fighting against an ONSLAUGHT of water....it's not just a matter of slamming a few things in there....

I have to say I alternate between horror and anger. I mean some of these women and men are my age and in good health and lived in VERY nice homes near the ocean. They just decided to be stupid!!!! . Now our rescue workers are risking thier lives for them. Now of course there are hundreds of folks whose situations may not have allowed them to leave, but there are those who could have and didn't....'

And then there are folks calling Larry King.. I swear that some Americans think that our Gov't has some great powers of foresight. Plus if the army had been in NO prior to the storm then these same folks would have called and screamed about a police state!!!

[MagicKingdom05]

CarolA,

Exactly. People would have complained that the soldiers were just there to spread panic throughout NO.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

OH forget that--think of how tinked people would have been if this thing beelined back to Florida. All that evacuating for "nothing".

You can't win for losing. It is all about us not wanting to be inconvenienced and not believing that it really is in our interest of safety.

It is a shame!

[Lisa loves Pooh]

That's funny--I didn't know there was a Six Flags in NOLA. Well it is now very distinctly a water park.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

NASA Facility where they build the external fuel tank looked relatively in tact. It is near 6 flags. Learn something new everyday.

This tour--is cool....for what it is.

broadcasting now:
http://www.wwltv.com/perl/common/video/wmPlayer.pl?title=beloint_khou&props=livenoad

[MagicKingdom05]

Did I hear right that they now have to clear out the superdome because of the water outside and possible breeches to it or did I miss understand something. If true where are all the people going (possible risen to 50,000) and how are they going to get them out.

[wvjules]

You heard it right. I had to rewind to listen to it again. They also said that over the next 12-15 hours 9 (more) feet of water will be in NO.

[MagicKingdom05]

wvjules,

Thanks I think. When I think it can't get much worse it does. I keep telling myself to imagine the worse possible outcome so I won't get surprised at what happens with this thing.

[CarolA]

As they put it NO is in a bowl and now the bowl is going to fill up with water....

[MagicKingdom05]

OMG some *** **** (use your imagination) on a nother board sports related was wondering if there was still time to get a refund on tickets he bought for the New Orlean Saints. He thought why should he pay for the tickets if they can't be used. I'm not sure where he was from, but obviously not from the LA, AL, MS area.

I swear some people just don't understand what's actually important here and football tickets isn't one of them.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

OMG some *** **** (use your imagination) on a nother board sports related was wondering if there was still time to get a refund on tickets he bought for the New Orlean Saints. He thought why should he pay for the tickets if they can't be used. I'm not sure where he was from, but obviously not from the LA, AL, MS area.

I swear some people just don't understand what's actually important here and football tickets isn't one of them.

:blush:

I will admit I have so been wanting to post a thread inquiring about the football season. But couldn't figure out how to word it correctly without getting flamed.

I'm sure he sounded all whiny--he should get his head out of his posterior and worry about the refund logistics later....but I was wondering too--not so much about refunds...just where the Saints play their home games now. :blush:

[Shutterbug]

The remnants of Katrina reached here this afternoon....been pouring hard all day...flood watches in effect.

[CarolA]

:blush:

I will admit I have so been wanting to post a thread inquiring about the football season. But couldn't figure out how to word it correctly without getting flamed.

I'm sure he sounded all whiny--he should get his head out of his posterior and worry about the refund logistics later....but I was wondering too--not so much about refunds...just where the Saints play their home games now. :blush:



Actually this was in the USAToday. The short reponse... they don't have a clue. Of course this was when we thought the worst was yesterday.... Now they really don't have a clue!! And actually this is imporatant. Sports and other "community" things returning to normal are an imporatant part in the recovery process.

[MagicKingdom05]

Lisa loves Pooh,

Some poeple have said they might possibly play at LSU, but if that is being used for the hurricane then I have no idea.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

Actually this was in the USAToday. The short reponse... they don't have a clue. Of course this was when we thought the worst was yesterday.... Now they really don't have a clue!! And actually this is imporatant. Sports and other "community" things returning to normal are an imporatant part in the recovery process.


well they were having a sucky season--it'll either get suckier for them...or a miracle will happen and they wild card way to the super bowl.

They were not all there during practice yesterday---you could see it in their eyes. :(

[Lil_Tink]

Hugs to all. :grouphug:

[Shutterbug]

I heard that they may sink some barges at the entrance of the canal that has the breech to stem the flow of water.

[MagicKingdom05]

Shutterbug,

I just heard that to. The idea is to stop the majority of the water so they can then try to fix the breech and get some of that water out, which I have no clue how they are going to do that. However I am sure there is a team set up just to work on that one issue.

[MagicKingdom05]

I just went to turn my air on in my condo since it's 82 in there and feel so guilty knowing that there are so many people in LA, AL and MS suffering.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

Hmmm...where will they find these barges?

Also---wonder if they could build a dam in New Orleans. Seems to work elsewhere.

[Geoff_M]

The remnants of Katrina reached here this afternoon....been pouring hard all day...flood watches in effect.The remains of Katrina "hit" today on the way home from work... about 10 drops of rain hit my car windshield. I stopped and pondered the irony. It's been couldy and with a persistent breeze out of the NE. The rain stopped coming this way about 30 miles before it reach our part of SW Michigan.

[Geoff_M]

Hmmm...where will they find these barges?They're grain barges. The Port of New Orleans is by far the #1 export shipping point of corn, wheat, and soybeans out of the US. A steady stream of barges fairy the grain down the Missouri/Ohio/Mississippi rivers to NO, where they are loaded on ocean freighters. I don't think they'll have any problem finding a supply of them.

[totalia]

Actually, not all the pets left behind were all strays. Pets were not being accepted into the shelters and some people may have been forced to leave their pets behind and hope they can fend for themselves.

Regardless of how its you against the animals, it was still a cruel thing to say.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

I didn't hear the quote--so I cannot say one way or the other.

I would gather it was a warning to be careful. Stray or not--they are animals you don't know.

(And for the record--I'm an animal lover and as long as the animal didn't try to bite me--I do try to help it).

[CarolA]

I am with Lisa, be very careful. Even the nicest dog will bite if it's scared enough and it's not like medical services are running in NO right now.

[totalia]

Gods, I have a stomach ache.

[MagicKingdom05]

Did anyone just see that video of the cops in the store going through the aisles not looking for looters, but looting themselves. That just makes me sick. They funny thing is that they were caught on video do this and I'm sure this won't go lightly like it shouldn't.

[Mickey's Monkey]

So, how soon before former Presidents Clinton and Bush start touring the area and campaigning for relief? Think the outpouring of generosity/relief will be the same as it was for the tsunami disaster?

[MagicKingdom05]

Since this is only day 2 of this, give it some time and I'm sure relief efforts will start up.

[dopeys biggest fan]

I am at a loss for words looking at the images and video.

My thoughts are with everyone affected by this disaster.

One added thought.........BRING HOME THE NATIONAL GUARD, I think we need them right now!

[Planogirl]

I found more info about LSU posted on WWL:

LSU cancels classes until Sept. 6, emergency medical operations set up on campus

Yesterday’s influx of Louisianians evacuated because of the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina and the projected demand for the next several days has prompted LSU Chancellor Sean O’Keefe to postpone resumption of classes at the university until Tuesday, Sept. 6. However, university business operations will intensify on Wednesday, Aug. 31. As such, all university faculty, staff and administrators should please return to campus to help meet current, emergent evacuation assistance demands, and to begin preparing for the resumption of class next week. All faculty, staff and administration who can return to Baton Rouge safely and expeditiously are encouraged to do so. A liberal leave policy will be in effect.

LSU has been playing a crucial role in providing emergency medical services to evacuees from hurricane devastated areas. The evacuation efforts on campus are now extensive. The Maddox Fieldhouse at LSU is being utilized as a special needs shelter and the Maravich Assembly Center is a medical triage and staging area. The Bernie Moore Track Stadium is being used as a transport staging area for arriving and departing medical evacuation vehicles. This means that emergency traffic flow into these areas of campus will be heavy. The community is asked to avoid travel on Nicholson Drive if at all possible, as this will serve as a primary route for emergency vehicles heading to campus. In addition, North Stadium Drive will be closed to traffic indefinitely.

These emergency medical services based at LSU will need assistance from nurses, physician's assistants and other medical personnel who can volunteer their time and expertise. Those who can assist in this important effort are asked to call 225-219-0821 so that emergency officials can determine how best to utilize their services.

Other important information about LSU's post-hurricane operations:

* LSU's Paul M. Hebert Law Center will resume classes on Tuesday, Sept. 6.
* The LSU Child Care Center will resume operations on Wednesday, Aug. 31.
* The LSU Agricultural Center will resume operations on Wednesday, Aug. 31
* The LSU Laboratory School will resume classes on Thursday, September 1
* The LSU administration has requested that university faculty be understanding and flexible when dealing with the collection of assigned materials and student absences due to the disruption caused by Hurricane Katrina. For every day university classes are cancelled, academic deadlines will be extended accordingly. The Office of Academic Affairs will assess options to make up for lost class days and will announce a decision soon.

Meanwhile, all University services and facilities are up and running. Full operations are expected to resume on Wednesday, Aug. 31.

* The Pentagon and Highland Dining Halls are open today, Aug. 30, offering continuous service from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Normal food service operations will resume on Wednesday, Aug. 31.
* In order to provide activities for those students who are in town or on campus, the LSU Recreational Center is open today, Aug. 30, until 11 p.m. and regular hours will resume on Wednesday, Aug. 31. The LSU Union common space is also open today and the full Union, including all retail and dining, will resume normal operating hours on Wednesday.
* LSU's emergency hotline number, 1-800-516-6444 or 578-INFO (4636), will be kept up-to-date with information on the resumption of classes. Updates will also be available on radio station KLSU 91.1 FM.

[CrazedDisFan]

First, let me say my prayers are with everyone who has encountered Hurricane Katrina. :grouphug:

Here's an update on my family members (2) in Metairie, LA:

My cousin, a LPN at Jefferson Healthcare in Jefferson Parish, LA, is okay. I have talked to her once since the storm. Today, she was able to get a signal and phone her mom (my aunt here in Michigan). She is doing okay, she is alive, her daughter whom evacuated to Baton Rouge is fine. My cousin is staying to help at her work (they are being evacuated eventually to a safer facility). She said she will stay for however long it takes. :(

Her daughter (18) called us tonight and I offered her a round trip plane ticket, shopping trip, and a place to stay until they can go home, if they have a home left. She is going to wait a few days in Baton Rouge and see what happens. Hopefully, she can get a ride to somewhere with an operating airport.

While the thought of the horrific conditions, lack of safety, and general state of the region is distressing, my family feels ultimately blessed that they are alive.

[Geoff_M]

Did anyone just see that video of the cops in the store going through the aisles not looking for looters, but looting themselves.Well, the New Orleans PD hasn't exactly been known for it's ethical standards over the years.

[totalia]

My fiance just called. He's leaving for Tennessee tomorrow and he's going to look for a job there. He thinks that there's probably nothing to go back for and that he's lost everything. He's going to try to see if his cell phone company will transfer his account (and the payment that went with it) to Tennessee.

He saw one of the hotels his company owns on the net. Pictures. Apparently, all its windows were blown out and there's water just pouring into the inside.

The orders from FEMA as he tells them to me are currently:

No one is to reenter the city for a week. They are hoping the water will stop and start to recede. After a week, people can go back to see what they can salvage but then they are supposed to leave again for up to two months so the gvt workers can try to fix everything. It's supposed to take two months for the water lines to be fixed and then another month to fix the electricity.

He managed to get ahold of one of our friends, who drove to Houston, Texas. Two others he can't get ahold of. The phone lines are completely screwed up. Sometimes calls will go through, sometimes they won't. Nothing will go directly into the city. Cell phones are working outside of the New Orleans network area on roaming only.

That means that the friends probably didn't leave.

Now we can only wait and see if they are alive.

I swear I feel like I'm going to be sick.

[angey77]

totalia, I am physically sick too.
When I hear that in 12-15 hours, the east bank will be flooded with substantial waters, to hear such a horriific scene in advance, its just horrible. Especially since you see that area is somewhat dry and it is about to just take it on full-fledge. My DH's grandmother and sister live right there, and we were rejoicing that they seemed to be spared. That news just sent us all down the toilet. (Luckily, both are evacuated).
As far as the Superdome, Blanco just had a press conference and there are around 20K people there. She said most are trying to work together, but you have some of those only thinking of themselves. They are trying to move them because the conditions are rapidly deteriorating. Imagine 20K people, many with special needs, and no flushing toilets, running water or electricity. Every time someone is rescued, they are brought to the Dome. They are making efforts now and planning to have them all out of there, they are hoping, in the next day or two.
Also, all shrimpers in the Bucktown area have just been deputized (why did they not do this earlier??). They have been authorized to find any boat and basically hotwire them to help in the rescue efforts. Some citizens had already taken that duty upon themselves before the official word, rescuing some in the Lakeview area.
I have a feeling tomorrow will be the worst day, but with all the help coming in, it will get better, as far as the quality of life for those left. From what the news is reporting, armed forces and state troopers should be to New Orleans soon to stop the looting and get that under control. Doesn't help that these idiots are shooting at cops either. It makes me so mad to know these people coming in can be finding survivors, but no. They have to curb the people who can't control themselves and only make things worse for the city and themselves in the long run. It is so frustrating.

[totalia]

I so completely agree. I'm so frustrated and I'm scared. He may be alive but I'm still scared. This is going to change things a hell of alot.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

I so completely agree. I'm so frustrated and I'm scared. He may be alive but I'm still scared. This is going to change things a hell of alot.


Can he come to Canada and be with you?

[totalia]

I'd love it with a passion. The only problem is that I haven't worked for 10 months. I start a job on the 6th. So right now, I can't even take care of myself much less anyone else.

Though you do have a point. I'd love to bring him here. Maybe in a month or so once my own life gets more straightened up so that I can take care of us.

[Free4Life11]

My cousin, a LPN at Jefferson Healthcare in Jefferson Parish, LA, is okay. I have talked to her once since the storm. Today, she was able to get a signal and phone her mom (my aunt here in Michigan). She is doing okay, she is alive, her daughter whom evacuated to Baton Rouge is fine. My cousin is staying to help at her work (they are being evacuated eventually to a safer facility). She said she will stay for however long it takes. :(

Thank God she is safe! I remember looking on the map where you cousin was and was so worried for her!

How can this not make us so thankful for what we have?

Amen. It really does put things into perspective.

Gods, I have a stomach ache.

I can't imagine how you must feel. I truly hope things work out for you and your fiance (it is your fiance, correct?).

I don't even know anyone in these states, but I feel awful. My brother and sister-in-law worked at a mission in rural Mississippi for a year -- when we visited, the poverty was so extreme, I was in complete shock. Families living in shacks, some without running water. I believe it was Cary, Mississippi, don't know if it was in the path. I pray it wasn't. They were such kind people, but so so so poor. :(

[CourtasanSatine]

I'm sitting up waiting for the next email from people and tonight's were just scary. I wish I knew what to tell them since some are thinking this term is pretty much over in terms of school

Any ideas of what could go into a care package? Am thinking about making some to send to same group

[Planogirl]

I'm sitting up waiting for the next email from people and tonight's were just scary. I wish I knew what to tell them since some are thinking this term is pretty much over in terms of school

Any ideas of what could go into a care package? Am thinking about making some to send to same group
How about those little spray fans if it's possible to find any right now?

[CourtasanSatine]

Planogirl: I'm going to buy a few if I can find any

[Free4Life11]

http://msnbc.com/modules/mapview/katrina_no.asp -- interacive map.

CourtasanSatine - definitely some snacks, maybe some nice personal care products, maybe a dvd or music cd, gift card, card.

[CourtasanSatine]

Free4Life: Thanks for the ideas:) I'm also going to send one friend some sunglasses since we're meeting at a anime con over Thanksgiving break and he's sure that part of his costume is gone(Vash from Trigun). Maybe knowing I can send sunglasses will help me somehow

[Free4Life11]

The looting is out of control. I have never seen anything like this is my life. The images on Rita Cosby were shocking.

[Free4Life11]

Last update for the night....Salvation Army rep. says "ice is like gold." I kind of feel guilty...I was getting mad that the automatic ice maker wasn't working correctly...as I said before this really puts things in perspective.

[totalia]

Yes, its my fiance.

I can't say much about the looting. Only that it doesn't surprise me in the least. Unfortunately. People are naturally selfish creatures and will take advantage of a situation that presents itself. Especially if they don't usually have access to the kinds of things they are stealing for whatever reason.

Honestly, the cops and military have more important things to deal with than a few thousand looters so probably nothing at all is being done about it.

And I really think that looting is the least of the peoples worries. They need to figure out how they are going to get food, water and shelter until the cleanup can start. And after it does.

Gods, those poor people. I wish I could help them. Hell, I wish I could help my fiance right now. He helped me so much after my car accident. I feel like right now, I should help him. But how? I'm nearly 2000 miles away, have $100 in the bank and it will probably be a month before I get any more.

I just wish I could do something. He called earlier with a phone card but it was really expensive.

I hate feeling powerless. Its the worst feeling in the world.

Those poor people.

[Free4Life11]

If there is any way he can get a Sams Club phone card he should. It's only 3.4 cents per minute in the United States and I am sure they have very reasonable rates to Canada.

[totalia]

We dont have a Sams in my city. Not sure about Alabama or Tenn. I have a good place to get great phone cards though. Just need money to do it.

[ducklite]

OMG some *** **** (use your imagination) on a nother board sports related was wondering if there was still time to get a refund on tickets he bought for the New Orlean Saints. He thought why should he pay for the tickets if they can't be used. I'm not sure where he was from, but obviously not from the LA, AL, MS area.

I swear some people just don't understand what's actually important here and football tickets isn't one of them.

I hope some bird takes up residence outside his house and poops on his head every morning.

Anne

[ducklite]

I am with Lisa, be very careful. Even the nicest dog will bite if it's scared enough and it's not like medical services are running in NO right now.

This is true. It's why those who are first responders with the animal rescue groups are higly trained and use a variety of catch poles sand saftey devices when picking up even the most docile animals.

Most first responders also get the rabies prophylactic series, and being up-to-date on tetnus and HiB is required.

Anne

[Luv2Roam]

After hearing the mayor of NO this morning it is obvious they were not at all prepared for this, despite all their warnings.
He is upset the sabdbags were diverted. Why were they not doing that before the storm anyway or at the least immediate after. Those measures should have been in place and ready to go.
They need to get cruise ships and heliocopters and get as many out as they can.
Where is the coordination? They kept saying The Big One was coming. But there seems to plans in place other than waiting for help from the outside.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

According to an interview last night--there was no diversion of sandbags.

[Luv2Roam]

The mayor did not mention it.
This morning a reporter (CNN? Or NBC?) said what they mayor is not saying is the sandbags were diverted to another location. (Due to all the lack and break in communication because of few and sporadic communication options at this point.)
This came from one of the reporters who is also stuck in a hotel with water rising.
He sounded very bleak and tired.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

correct--I heard that last night as well. They were saying that the situation was assessed and probably deemed that it wouldn't work.

Also heard this morning that some Navy ships are steaming to the area.

And then the most awful thing----employee cars at Tulane Hospital--are being looted.

And looters are trying to get IN to Children's Hospital.

Shameful!!!

[Lisa loves Pooh]

On Today--an interview....looting in the shelters in Gulfport....and a black market has emerged.

[wfloyd]

Lisa loves Pooh,

Some poeple have said they might possibly play at LSU, but if that is being used for the hurricane then I have no idea.

I saw that the Houston Texans have offered their stadium to be used by the Saints if they are not able to get back into the Superdome by Spet. 18th. There has been no response by either the team or the NFL.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

I saw that the Houston Texans have offered their stadium to be used by the Saints if they are not able to get back into the Superdome by Spet. 18th. There has been no response by either the team or the NFL.


That is great for them to do that.

[wfloyd]

I also saw that the Saints are looking at San Antonio and the Alamodome to have their games and then practice at a field nearby.

[floridafam]

DH and I were watching TV last night and they did a little story about Brett Favre's Mom. He couldn't get a hold of her, she didn't evacuate.

A news crew found her and let her use a phone to call Brett.

:confused3

You would think that she or her son would have had enough common sense to get her out of there.

She looked tired and out of sorts.

I just keep hearing these stories about people who should know better.



I wonder if the baby formula companies are doing anything? I think it would be great if they could get a bunch of baby formula to the region.

[CarolA]

God help them.

However, I do have one question. Am I the only one who is unimpressed with the Gov of Lousiana? She just seems clueless. When asked do you need to evacuate NO she just kind of wandered around the subject verbally ringing her hands!

The former Mayor of NO is on Today now... He seems desperate. He keep saying the army has to stop the leak....Well, he acts like the army is just going to throw troops in there as a barricade to the water. Not sure how that is going to help. I swear that I don't think troops alone are the ansewer... I mean the army branch that has any experience with this is there now... I don't think the infantry knows much about levy leaks.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

florida fam--evac orders are for coastal communities.---usually if you are inland, the evac orders aren't there. Where I live, the island is mandatory--but those several miles inland aren't.

Additionally---looking at flood models they showed yesterday--the eye caused a powerful storm surge.

And just like Port Charlotte--this thing was expected to hit directly on New Orleans. And a last minute toggle--spelled disaster for mississippi.

If she was in an ocean front home, I'd shake my head--but given her location--it was an unfortunate circumstance.

but here is a blurb:

Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre learned from his mother, Bonita, late Tuesday afternoon that the family home in Kiln, Miss., was destroyed. According to the Packers, Favre said his mother reported spending Monday night in the attic, along with his grandmother, after the house quickly filled with water.

On Tuesday, the water receded enough that she was able to leave the home and go to Favre's brother Jeff's nearby house. Everyone in the family was fine.

Favre said earlier Tuesday that his wife, Deanna, and their two children, 16-year-old Brittany and 6-year-old Breleigh, were safe at Favre's home in Hattiesburg, 60 miles north of Kiln, although their property had extensive damage.

http://mq-mapgend.websys.aol.com/?e=9&GetMapDirect=Gme5diw%2ca%3a9u12%3b%40%24xu%2dr25r7 2%26%3dyw%21wb5h67%3a9a%402d48sd%401%26h4yxla%24xq yz00%402n56%2an%26u72u%2c%24xuzr%3a%26%40%24%3al6% 405ury2u%40%5fgh%2drxqf72%26%40%24nq67%261%2c%2400 62%3a%26
This is the mapquest link--but for simplicity--she lives a few miles North of I-10 about midway between Gulfport and Slidell.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

CarolA--they do need to stop the leak. Only when they can do that--can they even begin to worry about making the pumps work.

I think the governor is doing well. Public Officials are human and the signs of fatigue are setting in (last night--they...newsstaff included...were having trouble remembering what day it is in).

It's that whole--walk a mile in there shoes bit. We haven't been through it--we aren't the ones responsible for cleaning it up. I think it is too early to criticize the leadership. JMHO.

[CarolA]

Lisa,
I agree they need to stop the leak... it was just the way this guy was carrying on. When the interviewer asked him what the army was suppose to do he just kept screaming send in the army... I really belive that the army and everyone else is desperately working on ideas however, nothing like this has happened in recent history and so far they haven't hit the right idea. I mean this guy sounded like we should just plug soliders in the hole and that would solve it... I think its going to take something more substantial that a private.... He did not mention using the army to provide supplies, evacuate people etc. just to plug the leak.... I have no idea why the station decided to interview him since he really was not very helpful. (I got the impression he wanted to imply the current mayor was not doing the right thing, but the interviewer never really let him go down that path.)

Bodies alone won't stop that leak without a plan... If all it took was bodies they would have volunteers....

[minkydog]

I can't imagine the burden the governor must feel in this situation. Everyone is looking to her to make the right decisions and the prevent loss of life &property--how much experience do you think this person has with natural disasters?? I think she's doing the best she can. She looks exhausted--has she even slept since Sunday?

All any of the officials can do is work closely with the disaster teams and rely on their experiences. The fact is communication is spotty, transportation is almost non-existent, and everyone is out of their comfort zone. What does one do when one sees ones life go down the drain in 24hrs? There is no preparing for that.

[ducklite]

It's obvious that the Governor of LA's heart is breaking, as is the nations. I know NOTHING of her politics, and I don't want this to turn into a political debate--another time for that one. But I think she is perhaps not leading as decisively and effectively as someone else might. I am NOT saying she should be removed from power. But I would like to see the state bring in someone like Bernie Karrick or Rudy Guiliani, someone who has effectively dealth with a major disaster and has proven leadership abilities under the worst of time to work alongside her, providing her with guidence and focus and strong leadership under pressure.

Anne

[sodaseller]

I cannot imagine that there is a feasible way to stop the "leak" that is not being attempted for lack of resources

[Lisa loves Pooh]

ducklite--giuliani (sp?) had two collapsed buildings to deal with....were talking about a whole city under water...not to mention several parishes with similar problems.

What they need is someone expert in flood control...not disaster control. Can't fix the disaster until you stop the disaster from happening.

[ducklite]

ducklite--giuliani (sp?) had two collapsed buildings to deal with....were talking about a whole city under water...not to mention several parishes with similar problems.

What they need is someone expert in flood control...not disaster control. Can't fix the disaster until you stop the disaster from happening.

Actually he had more than two collapsed buildings, there were nine in all I bleieve, and many more teetering on the brink. Additionally there were thousands of people who were displaced and couldn't return to their homes, major business disrupted with the potential for world-wide impact, and a huge percentage of the police and fire departments dead on the scene.

There were thousands dead, a communication system completely down, power completely down, and a mass transit system pretty much down. Add to that the problem of no air transport to get supplies and rescuers in.

There are a lot of parallel's between the two situations. Replace the water with toxic debris in about the same sized geographical area.

I'll agree that flood control is a problem, but it's not something the Governor can personally stop. What I see as a bigger problem is the humanity issues, how to regain control of the streets and care for the thousands left homeless, and that should be the Governors concern as a leader--let the ARMY engineers deal with the flooding.

Anne

[Planogirl]

It's hard for me to believe that SOMEONE can't get a handle on this leak. Have dams and levees never broken before?

It's too late now but if they'd had the manpower and supplies when the breech first started leaking, they might have been able to avoid a lot of this. It's sad that miscommunication or something caused so many problems.

As for the looters, is the National Guard in the city yet? If these nuts are threatening hospitals then drastic action may be necessary at some point.

[stevenpensacola]

It's hard for me to believe that SOMEONE can't get a handle on this leak. Have dams and levees never broken before?

.

moving water is a POWERFUL force....you ever seen the Grand Canyon?

[Lisa loves Pooh]

Actually he had more than two collapsed buildings, there were nine in all I bleieve, and many more teetering on the brink.

Anne

I'm beginning to think you enjoy correcting me :earboy2: .

The point is they are two entirely different disasters and there is nothing to fix until the disaster stops. At this point--there really is no city to deal with other than getting people out of it.

Two compare the two incidents again: There was no cleaning up NYC--until the fires stopped (and ultimately collapsed). There was no cleaning up--until rescue efforts were suspended.

[angey77]

However, I do have one question. Am I the only one who is unimpressed with the Gov of Lousiana? She just seems clueless. When asked do you need to evacuate NO she just kind of wandered around the subject verbally ringing her hands!

It is not the pressure, not the stress, she is ALWAYS like this. It is a bit worse, given the situation, but her method of communication has not changed. Babblehead Blanco. I'm not going to get started, like someone mentioned, that is a whole nother thread.
Baton Rouge news is reporting more than 100,000 could be moving to Baton Rouge from the New Orleans area. All the people in the Superdome are being transported to Houston. I have friends that are working at Tulane Hospital and it is being reported those %#@# looters are breaking in their cars. Just proves they are not just after necessities.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

It's hard for me to believe that SOMEONE can't get a handle on this leak. Have dams and levees never broken before?




I'm sure they have--but when they break after the city is already flooded and there are no pumps working and there is no electricity....it takes more than a band-aid.

[cajunmommy]

Give Governor Blanco a break. I won't go into my political leanings, but this woman is EXHAUSTED!!!

During her campaign, you could see she had a weakness with extemporaneous speeches. Kind of a mystery since most of our LA politicians are know for their "silver tongues".

These type of off-the-cuff speeches, combined with the fact that she is having to lead the state through unimaginable circumstances is going to be stressful. She may not be polished, but she is leading effectively.

[peachgirl]

I said this in another post, but I agree with the former Mayor of New Orleans. This disaster is simple too big for local or state officials to handle on their own.

My complaint with the local officials is that they are too busy worrying about who's going to be in charge rather than just getting the job done.

The levee breech was supposed to be taken care of yesterday, but due to who knows what screw up, the sand bags were never delivered. They are attempting to do it today, but how much damage was done in the meantime?

[Planogirl]

I'm sure they have--but when they break after the city is already flooded and there are no pumps working and there is no electricity....it takes more than a band-aid.
I know. :guilty:

I've heard something about bringing some kind of huge barge to help plug the hole. Maybe they'll get somewhere with that.

[C.Ann]

God help them.

However, I do have one question. Am I the only one who is unimpressed with the Gov of Lousiana? She just seems clueless.

The former Mayor of NO is on Today now... He seems desperate..
-----------------------

I think anyone who is actually down there - regardless of their capacity - would appear clueless - and most definitely feel desperate.. We're only watching it on televison - from the comfort of our safe, secure dry homes..

The television videos don't even touch the magnitude of this situation.. Now is not the time to be critical - unless you're in the thick of it yourself and have walked a mile in their shoes..

[Lisa loves Pooh]

Wathcing the press conference regarding transporting refugees for Houston and I have come to a conclusion.

This effort for recovery is essentially going to require moving people all over the country....and then those that want to come back to resettle can do so when permitted.

I would imagine if they are taking the time to transport them away---that at some point a free roundtrip return will be offered when they can come back.

This rebuild--is going to be closely kin to what happens when an area is ravaged by war. It will take many years----and it will start small and go from there. There is no way any reasonable timeline would have that city looking again like a livable city in the next year or so.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

-----------------------

I think anyone who is actually down there - regardless of their capacity - would appear clueless - and most definitely feel desperate.. We're only watching it on televison - from the comfort of our safe, secure dry homes..

The television videos don't even touch the magnitude of this situation.. Now is not the time to be critical - unless you're in the thick of it yourself and have walked a mile in their shoes..

You are soooo right!

[Geoff_M]

While many of the characters in this drama are on the other side of the political fence from me, I don't think it's time to heap scorn on them or their actions. This isn't a playbook that's been run before. This is an unprecidented situation for starters, add to that the lack of reliable real-time on-the-ground intelligence, having to choose between allocating resources between saving lives/damage repair/law and order, natives that are getting restless, conditions getting worse instead of better once the storm cleared, etc. and you have a situation that I wouldn't even wish on Michael Moore. On top of that, I can't imagine the physical and emotional fatigue the top officials must be feeling at this point. I doubt they've had much rest in the last week from when preparations started.

[CarolA]

Well, as I indicated I have no idea why they even interviewed the FORMER mayor. It's not like he has much to do with the current operations. I think the current mayor is doing what he can.

As to the sandbag issue, that seems to be a recurring "rumor". Have we had any confirmation on it. Not to mention that there was more then one leak so it may be that sandbags were all diverted to one while no one was aware of number two. (The press covered lots of "little" leaks that have turned into the BIG one!)


I think communciation is a real problem. Yes, things could have been done but as in all of life hindsight is wonderful. NOW we think that A, B and C should have been done.

And there is another issue that really hasn't been mentioned here. The levys and pumps in the NO system have not been properly maintained over the years. Lousiana did receive some money this year from the Federal Govt. However, the ecomomies of the state and the city have not allowed for proper maintenance. I don't know who is responsible for the maintenace (there seems to be some finger pointing there also)

As to the Gov, I really didn't mean to be mean but her communciation skills all along have seemed to be lacking. That does NOT mean that she is not doing a good job, but that perhaps she is not communciating as clearly as might be wished for.

[Free4Life11]

I for one think they are doing the best they can given the situation. Let's not be critical, but helpful and hopeful. This is unprecedented and we have to remember that all the officials have likely been affected TOO. Some of THEM may not have anywhere to go after this either...

Have they started the caravan out of New Orleans yet? Are there any dry paths from the Superdome to the highway, or would they have to drive through some standing water.

[bsnyder]

I also don't want to sound heartless...I'm sure they are doing the best they can, and the situation IS unprecedented. But I have been less than impressed with the government officials I've seen. My sympathies are with them, but that doesn't mean we can't also judge their performance. They were elected to perform.

And this situation is NOT unprecedented the way 9/11 was. All my life, I've been hearing about the "big one" and how it could/would effect New Orleans. It's looking like there were some major gaps in their contingency planning for what would actually happen after "the big one".

Hindsight is 20/20. But is there anything that's happening on the ground that wasn't predicted in advance? Levee breeches? The city under water? Looting? No food, water, electricity? The situation at the Superdome? All this was predictable, given the right kind of storm.

[Free4Life11]

I guess I haven't seen enough of the government officials to make a judgment. The mayor of NOLA WAS very clear in telling people to get out. I've never heard about the "big one" but then again I've lived in the North my whole life.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

Bet--it is unprecedented the catastrophic nature that isn't easing up and rather getting worse even 2 days later.

They've lost ALL services---for months. That has not happened in an entire metropolitan area before.



On a side note--Mrs. Kreamer mentioned on her thread she heard a hospital collapsed in Slidell and killed ~200....does anybody have a confirmation on this?

[ducklite]

On a side note--Mrs. Kreamer mentioned on her thread she heard a hospital collapsed in Slidell and killed ~200....does anybody have a confirmation on this?

Trying to get confirmation through a ham radio operator neetwork.

Anne

[idratherbeinwdw]

I guess I haven't seen enough of the government officials to make a judgment. The mayor of NOLA WAS very clear in telling people to get out. I've never heard about the "big one" but then again I've lived in the North my whole life.

Agreed, it was a very clear message to evacuate. But, what do you do if you're poor and you have no car, no money for a hotel, etc.? Especially if you're elderly or ill, and out of the loop of latest news. (Granted, there WERE folks with ways and means to get out who ignored the warnings.)

I have read about The Big One, and I am shocked at how ill prepared it seems the officials in the area are. I live 30 minutes from Ground Zero in NYC, and I have to say (and I am no big fan of his other than this) Guiliani handled it amazingly well. I guess one difference is the disaster area here was confined to a smaller area, but still, it was a never before/totally unexpected disaster, and I feel it was handled with a lot of expertise.

I am not placing blame or pointing fingers at any one in particular, only saying I am surprised, since this was always said to be inevitable, that there was not a better disaster plan in place.

My heart goes out to all affected by this terrible storm.

[Free4Life11]

Agreed, it was a very clear message to evacuate. But, what do you do if you're poor and you have no car, no money for a hotel, etc.? Especially if you're elderly or ill, and out of the loop of latest news. (Granted, there WERE folks with ways and means to get out who ignored the warnings.)

I think that's why the opened up the Superdome. They knew that many people could NOT get out, so they were running city buses, transporting people to the Superdome. Obviously it's not a nice place to be, but it's a heck of a lot safter than being trapped on your roof.

[dturner]

Bet--it is unprecedented the catastrophic nature that isn't easing up and rather getting worse even 2 days later.

They've lost ALL services---for months. That has not happened in an entire metropolitan area before.


On a side note--Mrs. Kreamer mentioned on her thread she heard a hospital collapsed in Slidell and killed ~200....does anybody have a confirmation on this?

Holy Cow!!!

Last night while watching coverage I was thinking "I bet most of the people who did NOT leave New Orleans probably were poor people who probably didn't have a car and used public transportation"

I'm speechless!!!

[roger_ramjet]

Isn't it amazing - the finger pointing begins already. Stuff is lying around in ruins and people want to lay blame without having any idea what the situation is on the ground, in a situation which has no precedence in this country. How do you prepare for that?

Come on.

[Free4Life11]

On Fox News right now, they are showing a news conference in Houston. They are explaining the logistics. This isn't designed for long-term shelter, but they should be good for days and weeks. They will have an area for first aid, nursery, mental health. They are contracting out meals to an outside company, and they have showers, water, air conditioning. They have ordered cots and blankets.

[totalia]

These people are in pain. They've lost a heck of alot and are looking for someone to blame.

They are wrong of course. They were given days of warning. If they didn't listen to the warning, thats their own problem.

When they calm down, they will probably see that they are being stupid. You can't control the weather. Hell the news was blasting that it had turned into a cat 5 the day before it hit.

How could they not have heard that on the radio or on tv? Or from friends? It was the talk of the city.

They are just looking for someone to blame. Most of them will come to their senses later when the crisis is over.

[Figment22]

I've been following this thread since day one although I haven't posted here as of yet. Even though I've never been to New Orleans, I just have had this hollow pit in my stomach for the past few days. This tragedy is just unimaginable and my heart and prayers go out to everyone affected.

I haven't seen this posted yet but over the next couple of days the Superdome refugees are going to be transported to the Houston Astrodome.

http://start.earthlink.net/article/nat?guid=20050831/43152b40_3ca6_1552620050831641251563
NEW ORLEANS - At least 25,000 of Hurricane Katrina's refugees, a majority of them at the New Orleans Superdome, will travel in a bus convoy to Houston and will be sheltered at the Astrodome, which hasn't been used for professional sporting events in years.

Evacuees with special problems already have been evacuated to hospitals in other Louisiana cities, but the 23,000 people now confined to the stuffy, smelly Superdome, as well as some other refugees will go to Houston, about 350 miles away.

The marathon bus convoy should take two days, officials said.

"Our view is the move to the Astrodome is temporary," said William Lokey, chief coordinator for the Federal Emergency Management Agency. "We're buying time until we can figure something out."

Ann Williamson, secretary of the Louisiana Department of Social Services who is working on the evacuation plans, said, "The remarkable offer from Texas did not have an end date."

FEMA will provide 475 buses for the transfer, and the Astrodome's schedule has been cleared through December for housing evacuees, said Kathy Walt, a spokeswoman for Texas Gov. Rick Perry.

The situation inside the dank and sweltering Superdome was becoming desperate: The water was rising, the air conditioning was out, toilets were broken, and tempers were rising.

Word of the move - a logistical nightmare at best - had not reached the Superdome when The Associated Press told administrators about it.

The dome is still surrounded by flooded streets, and getting buses to the ramps will be difficult, if not impossible. The floodwaters are threatening the generators which are providing electricity for the remaining lighting. There has been no air conditioning and only limited lights since city power went out during the hurricane arrived Monday.

National Guardsmen sandbagged a small area around the generator, but the underground fuel tank was covered with water so it could not be refilled until National Guard mechanics and engineers devised a way to bypass the fuel tank and run fuel directly from a truck

"We were down to an hour-and-a-half of fuel." Thornton said.

The generator is now being monitored around the clock. Wednesday morning, it was only 11 1/2 inches above the level of the flood waters.

Power and air-conditioning would be no problem in the Astrodome, although there would be few comforts of home in the stadium seating.

"We want to accommodate those people as quickly as possible for the simple reason they have been through a horrible ordeal," said Rusty Cornelius, administrative coordinator for the Harris County (Texas) Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

Cornelius said the refugees would be bused to Houston, but all would not necessarily be on the road at the same time. Specifics of the transport and housing for the refugees were still being worked out with Red Cross and state government officials, he said.

Texas also is looking at the possibility of using the Ford Center in Beaumont for some long-term housing for other evacuees from Louisiana who may be staying in hotels, motels and campgrounds.

"Obviously from Governor Perry's standpoint, Texas is going to lend a helping hand and take care of those who have been devastated," Walt said.

Gov. Kathleen Blanco said she wanted the Superdome - which had become a shelter of last resort - evacuated within two days, along with other gathering points for storm refugees.

The Astrodome helped put Houston on the map four decades ago. It still stands but is dwarfed by Reliant Stadium, the newly constructed home of the NFL's Houston Texans.

The Astrodome opened in 1965, 10 years before the Superdome in New Orleans.

[CarolA]

Agreed, it was a very clear message to evacuate. But, what do you do if you're poor and you have no car, no money for a hotel, etc.? Especially if you're elderly or ill, and out of the loop of latest news. (Granted, there WERE folks with ways and means to get out who ignored the warnings.)

My heart goes out to all affected by this terrible storm.



See that's me.. I am torn. However, I do know that w/in New Orleans we have a poor older population base. Of course it would be hard for them to evaucate. But... then you see someone my age in pretty good health who lives in a NICE home... They have no excuse besides STUPIDITY..... Sorry, but putting the lives of your family and the rescue workers in danger just because you thought you could ride it out is wrong. This is really true on the Gulf Coast. I mean a person making minium wage is not living in a beachfront home in most of these towns anymore... they couldn't afford the property taxes!

And while this thread has focused on NO... when you hit your knees spare a prayer for the folks all over the Gulf Coast. Remember there are lots of folks there homeless and without jobs. The loss of the casinos is a HUGE blow to the incomes of lots of people who live paycheck to paycheck.....

[dturner]

On Fox News right now, they are showing a news conference in Houston. They are explaining the logistics. This isn't designed for long-term shelter, but they should be good for days and weeks. They will have an area for first aid, nursery, mental health. They are contracting out meals to an outside company, and they have showers, water, air conditioning. They have ordered cots and blankets.

YAY - I'm glad to see Texas doing something like this.

[Geoff_M]

Well, as I indicated I have no idea why they even interviewed the FORMER mayor.Actually, it makes a lot of sense to me. Here's a person that knows the city, knows the workings of the city operations, knows the emergency plans, etc. and they are a lot more available to talk to the media as the current mayor attempts to tend to the business at hand.

And this situation is NOT unprecedented the way 9/11 was. All my life, I've been hearing about the "big one" and how it could/would effect New Orleans. It's looking like there were some major gaps in their contingency planning for what would actually happen after "the big one".There's an old saying about war... War plans are only good up until the point when the first shot is fired. A situation like this is about the same.... This is a situation that no amount of emergency exercises could realistically simulate.

As for the comments about the pumps no being maintained.... I was watching a live feed from WDSU TV on Monday when they showed a tape of a car plowing into a flooded underpass (it was the one where the reporter ran out and rescued the driver). The WDSU anchors indentified the location and one of them exclaimed "It's that where they just completed that million/zillion dollar project to install those new pumps?!?!?" The other anchor comfirmed it was. So I don't think it's accurate to imply that the pumping situation has been neglected in recent times.

[CarolA]

Bet--it is unprecedented the catastrophic nature that isn't easing up and rather getting worse even 2 days later.

They've lost ALL services---for months. That has not happened in an entire metropolitan area before.

?


AMEN!!! Before we judge we need to remember that there is no real good way to test for this. You can run simulations, but things always happen in the real world to screw you up.

While mistakes are being made I don't think ANYONE would think that the parties are doing anything wrong on purpose.... The only perfect being is God and all we can do is appeal to him to give everyone involved the wisdom and courage they need.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

I just posted on a forum to see if I can locate old friends. I just pulled out my old yearbook---all the faces.....I remember a handful of people off the top of my head--then pulled out the yearbook and it increased tenfold at least of all the different people....my teachers.

I tried not to put a face on the tragedy--but those faces are all right there in my yearbook!

(I had moved away and didn't graduate so didn't keep up with friends....it was another school in the bunch at the time).

[Free4Life11]

While I DEPLORE casino gambling (my grandpa is addicted and it has caused so many problems), I do feel bad for the workers who make their paycheck-to-paycheck income from them. I just wish these areas had a different industry to rely on. Oh well, it's going to be a huge blow to their economies.

[Figment22]

I tried not to put a face on the tragedy--but those faces are all right there in my yearbook!
This happened to me after 9/11. Several schoolmates died in the attack on the towers. :sad2:

[afr117]

I know what you mean Lisa. I lived in Kenner for eight years during the eighties. I have been wondering about the people in my old neighborhood, and at my junior high and high schools all week.

[Lisa loves Pooh]

While I DEPLORE casino gambling (my grandpa is addicted and it has caused so many problems), I do feel bad for the workers who make their paycheck-to-paycheck income from them. I just wish these areas had a different industry to rely on. Oh well, it's going to be a huge blow to their economies.


casino or not--at this point it wouldn't have mattered what their economy was based on :(

[Free4Life11]

The Clean Air Act standards of volatility and sulfur standards are being WAIVED. The waivers are effective through September 15th, 2005. This will allow less clean forms of fuel be used.

ETA -- they are waiving some of the laws regarding to trucker hours, to allow them to drive longer, I think? Am not totally sure. It's hard to keep up. So many federal agencies are making temporary changes.

[Geoff_M]

Someone mentioned Ham Radio operators.... If you have a shortwave radio capable of receiving Single Side Band (SSB) communications, you may want to pull it out and listen to the some of the relief networks that have been set up:The West Gulf Emergency Net remains active (7.285 MHz days/3.873 MHz nights), and radio amateurs not involved in emergency communication are being asked to keep these frequencies clear, plus or minus 5 kHz. A high volume of health-and-welfare requests reportedly was slowing the passage of critical tactical and emergency traffic.

The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN.org) on 14.265 MHz has been accepting and handling health-and-welfare inquiries on the air and via its Web site. SATERN reports it received more than 700 health-and-welfare requests in the first 12 hours after Katrina hit. The Salvation Army also is using Amateur Radio for its tactical communications. SATERN says the health-and-welfare demand is so heavy that it's threatening to overwhelm the Internet server.

http://www.arrl.org/news/stories/2005/08/30/1/?nc=1If you have a shortwave radio, it will enhance your reception if you can tape a 10 meter wire (so the wire makes contact with the antenna) to your telescoping antenna. You should be able to hear the networks above on, or around, the frequencies listed above. The bands these nets are on are "DX" bands, meaning you should be able to hear them within the US and across the globe, depending on time of day and weather conditions.

[palmtreegirl]

While I DEPLORE casino gambling (my grandpa is addicted and it has caused so many problems), I do feel bad for the workers who make their paycheck-to-paycheck income from them. I just wish these areas had a different industry to rely on. Oh well, it's going to be a huge blow to their economies.

I saw on CNN or MSNBC last night an interview with someone from Harrahs, they own casinos in Biloxi, Gulfport & New Orleans. They said that Harrah's will continue to pay the employees of the destroyed or damaged casinos for 90 days, they're also setting up toll free numbers for employees to use to contact them and their families. I thought that was a great gesture by Harrahs in an effort to help the people that work so hard for them.

[ducklite]

Someone mentioned Ham Radio operators.... If you have a shortwave radio capable of receiving Single Side Band (SSB) communications, you may want to pull it out and listen to the some of the relief networks that have been set up:If you have a shortwave radio, it will enhance your reception if you can tape a 10 meter wire (so the wire makes contact with the antenna) to your telescoping antenna. You should be able to hear the networks above on, or around, the frequencies listed above.

God information, thanks for sharing!

Anne

[Free4Life11]

Wow, that was a good thing for them to do! Casino workers work long hours, often for very little pay. Good for them to treat their employees with dignity.

[ducklite]

I saw on CNN or MSNBC last night an interview with someone from Harrahs, they own casinos in Biloxi, Gulfport & New Orleans. They said that Harrah's will continue to pay the employees of the destroyed or damaged casinos for 90 days, they're also setting up toll free numbers for employees to use to contact them and their families. I thought that was a great gesture by Harrahs in an effort to help the people that work so hard for them.

OUTSTANDING!!!

Anne

[Lisa loves Pooh]

I saw on CNN or MSNBC last night an interview with someone from Harrahs, they own casinos in Biloxi, Gulfport & New Orleans. They said that Harrah's will continue to pay the employees of the destroyed or damaged casinos for 90 days, they're also setting up toll free numbers for employees to use to contact them and their families. I thought that was a great gesture by Harrahs in an effort to help the people that work so hard for them.

That is EXCELLENT!!!

[CarolA]

If you want to read something that will break your heart

http://www.cnn.com/2005/WEATHER/08/31/katrina.bowie.ap/index.html


Also, I do know that recently money has been spent on the system in NO. However, the elected officials were saying recently that they were pretty far behind in upkeep. It may have been too little too late.

[Free4Life11]

http://investor.harrahs.com/releaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=171760

More information from Harrah's. I am really impressed that they are doing this -- good for them!

[Free4Life11]

If you want to read something that will break your heart

http://www.cnn.com/2005/WEATHER/08/31/katrina.bowie.ap/index.html


Also, I do know that recently money has been spent on the system in NO. However, the elected officials were saying recently that they were pretty far behind in upkeep. It may have been too little too late.

Carol, I read that story and the pictures are just heartbreaking. I can't imagine that. :guilty:

[Free4Life11]

The DOD is moving 8 ships to area, no idea how long they will take.

[Free4Life11]

On CNN.com: Federal officials declare public health emergency for entire Gulf Coast. Details soon.

[ladycollector]

I saw on CNN or MSNBC last night an interview with someone from Harrahs, they own casinos in Biloxi, Gulfport & New Orleans. They said that Harrah's will continue to pay the employees of the destroyed or damaged casinos for 90 days, they're also setting up toll free numbers for employees to use to contact them and their families. I thought that was a great gesture by Harrahs in an effort to help the people that work so hard for them.

ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL!

[Free4Life11]

Just heard a shocking story on Fox. A lady who was staying in a hotel saying the police came over the PA and said they were letting the prisoners free as the jail may been flooding and there was nothing they could do....the lady on the phone grabbed her stuff and ran down 4 flights of stairs in the dark. She jumped in her SUV she had rented and people were begging to go with her, she got as many as she could and too off for Houston. Apparently many of the hotel guests were worried and this seems to indicate that the many of the looters were fresh-out-of-jail criminals.

[Free4Life11]

Air Force One spent 35 minutes flying over the damaged area. President Bush will spea at 5 PM Eastern from the Rose Garden.

[dturner]

Just heard a shocking story on Fox. A lady who was staying in a hotel saying the police came over the PA and said they were letting the prisoners free as the jail may been flooding and there was nothing they could do....the lady on the phone grabbed her stuff and ran down 4 flights of stairs in the dark. She jumped in her SUV she had rented and people were begging to go with her, she got as many as she could and too off for Houston. Apparently many of the hotel guests were worried and this seems to indicate that the many of the looters were fresh-out-of-jail criminals.

I kept saying last night to the hubby "I haven't heard anything about the jails" what are they doing with prisoners?" YIKES!!!!!!

[CarolA]

Just heard a shocking story on Fox. A lady who was staying in a hotel saying the police came over the PA and said they were letting the prisoners free as the jail may been flooding and there was nothing they could do....the lady on the phone grabbed her stuff and ran down 4 flights of stairs in the dark. She jumped in her SUV she had rented and people were begging to go with her, she got as many as she could and too off for Houston. Apparently many of the hotel guests were worried and this seems to indicate that the many of the looters were fresh-out-of-jail criminals.

The SHOCKING part is not the fact about the JAIL> WHAT THE HECK was this woman still doing there if she had an SUV and a way out of dodge. Have all those notices about getting the HECK out of town not gotten to her. GOOD GRIEF!!!!!

[Free4Life11]

I know, but I think she was a reporter? She mentioned "carrying equipment" down the stairs so I can only assume she was a reporter.

[arminnie]

God help them.

However, I do have one question. Am I the only one who is unimpressed with the Gov of Lousiana? She just seems clueless. When asked do you need to evacuate NO she just kind of wandered around the subject verbally ringing her hands!

The former Mayor of NO is on Today now... He seems desperate. He keep saying the army has to stop the leak....Well, he acts like the army is just going to throw troops in there as a barricade to the water. Not sure how that is going to help. I swear that I don't think troops alone are the ansewer... I mean the army branch that has any experience with this is there now... I don't think the infantry knows much about levy leaks.

Very interesting observation about the governor. When I was in New Orleans last week a group of people (Democrats no less) were joking around that they would bet money that their governor had the lowest IQ of any U.S. governor.

The former mayor of New Orleans is totally worthless. The current mayor Ray Nagin has been doing a great job of trying to undo all of the entrenched corruption of the past mayors of New Orleans. I think Ray Nagin has come across very well during this horrible crisis.

[totalia]

While I DEPLORE casino gambling (my grandpa is addicted and it has caused so many problems), I do feel bad for the workers who make their paycheck-to-paycheck income from them. I just wish these areas had a different industry to rely on. Oh well, it's going to be a huge blow to their economies.
Not just the gambling, the tourism. Almost all the areas hit are major tourist industry places that who people live there rely on. The area was just starting to recover after 9/11. I can't imagine what this is going to do to all those poor peoples livelihoods.

[Miss Jasmine]

Dh was almost on his way to MS. Unfortunately his small department will be down three officers next week, so he and his partner can't go. That stinks. I was ready to pack him some food, pack him some clothes and send him with supplies for others. :(

[arminnie]

Here's some of the messages I've received:

"Houston parents of incoming freshmen at Tulane are petitioning Rice to allow all 99 freshmen from the Houston area conditional enterance into Rice."

"I only know what my mom who lives on Broadway at the river has told me. She's just been evacuated to Baton Rouge. (Yesterday afternoon) Apparently the upper part of uptown was not yet flooded as of yesterday. You can with perserverance get phone calls into most people. My cousin lives uptown near the river and was able to get to my mom's apartment but no where else. He says things and conditions are not to be believed and he can't quite come to grips with what's going on. I am living out of state so everything is second hand. The Baton Rouge airport opened yesterday afternoon so that might be a help. I wish I knew more. "

"The approximately 400 students that Tulane University evacuated to Jackson State University are safe and secure after the remnants of Hurricane Katrina struck the city of Jackson.


Jackson State has committed to sheltering and feeding all of the evacuated Tulane students for as long as necessary. The students are in very safe quarters and are accompanied by senior officers of the university.

The situation in the city of Jackson is that there is a power outage and Internet service is erratic. The airport is closed but is expected to reopen within 24-48 hours and other modes of transportation will also resume in that timeframe. Once those services are operational we are recommending that all Tulane students at Jackson State make plans to return home until the university can resume normal operations.

Tulane has arranged bus service to Dallas and Atlanta so that students can make travel arrangements from other cities if they choose. The buses will depart Jackson, MS at 8 p.m. CST tonight. Students sent to Atlanta will be hosted by Georgia Tech; students sent to Dallas will be hosted by Southern Methodist University. "

400 students evacuated to Jackson isn't many when there are over 10,000 students at Tulane.