There are far more homes unflood, but with people with no power and no way to get anywhere than there are flooded homes. Most likely 9 to 1 or better. Now if each of the homes that are unflood just cut off and with no power have prepped how much less a strain will it be logistically on first responders? How much well being able to take care of yourself and not needing help ease their response and leave more for those that need it?
It not just the prepper either, if you have stuff you can help. If you have power you might not be able to power someone else house, but you can charge batties and electronics for them. If you have a way to cook you can cook a pot luck for your neighbors. And it’s not just about STUFF! If you have skills you can use them to help other. Maybe help with temporary repairs on their house for some one that can’t drive a nail. Provide news and comunications. First aid you share your training. isn’t that better than stand around on a bridge waiting for FEMA to bring you a bottle of water, a MRE, a warm banklet and a kiss for your boo-boo?
Having been through several hurricanes much more powerful than this one I’ve noticed the majority of the wind damage is due to a couple of reasons.
1. Old, poorly constructed buildings. My home built to hurricane code suffered almost no wind damage.
2. Poorly maintained trees which shed limbs onto cars, homes, and powerlines.
Not much can be done to limit storm surge damage except elevate the building. Usually storm surge is limited to areas close to the water. A couple miles inland and you don’t have to worry unless you live in New Orleans or near a river.