What amazes me is people are totally oblivious to the weather now days, even to the extent of ignoring forcasts and warnings. Folks in NO and surrounding areas knew several days ago Katrina was out there and headed their direction. They, of all people, should know to pack and be ready to head out. But, nooo. So many have waited until the last minute and bottle necked the roads which only slows evacuation efforts.
Yes, yes, there are those who don't have transportation out but they too should have prepared. Lining up at the dome or other shelter anytime past noon was a bit late.
Speaking from last year's experience with hurricanes, I can tell you that when you haven't been hit with one in decades, you forget all about how much damage they're capable of inflicting. You also tend to get the "It won't hit here, it'll turn and go somewhere else" attitude.
Once a major hurricane hits your area directly, it all comes back very quickly.