The official that “cried wolf” was he local Sheriff, and it was a prudent call under the circumstances. 200,000 people’s lives possibly at stake, I’d rather get as many out of harm’s way as possible than live knowing that I should have acted and didn’t.
The situation at the dam may or may not have been as dire as thought, but at the time, and under the circumstances, I think erring on the side of safety was prudent.
I agree with you, but if they order a Nother evacuation, many people will feel that they were burned and may not comply. Their homes were looted. And the officials stated that the collapse of the dam was going to occur within 60 minutes. I’m not sure how they get their credibility back.