They're saying another 6" of rain this weekend - not sure if it's hurricane related or not. That'll make things problematic, especially in the mountains.
But, I don't disagree with you that we're a nation of frightened wimps. I'll gas up the cars today, we already have plenty of food and water socked away. We'll just hunker down for the weekend, and that'll be that. Not too much to get excited about.
I live here in High Point. I agree this weather has been very nasty. People might get some local flooding or some trees down. It’s a mess, but not an emergency.
When the state government declares a “state of emergency” this gives government authorities extraordinarily powers and limits the freedom of citizens. A few examples of this:
1. concealed-carry may be suspended
2. sales of alcohol may be suspended
3. government controls prices of goods in stores
4. police are given extra powers
5. the sale, storage or transport of gasoline may be restricted.
6. the government can control the movement or congregation of the populace
The “state of emergency” declaration should not be issued lightly. Citizens should be aware that their freedoms are curtailed during such a period in that the government assumes almost dictatorial powers. This is not just a matter of over-hyped pres reports, but real infringements on our everyday freedoms.