[Diddle E. Squat]

The lack of solid information about the extent of Katrina's toll suggests that we are in for a hell of a shock once it's known.

No, not necessarily. Many places have impassable roads (both water and debris) and all the communication/electrical systems down. So unless there is a ham operator in that area, with access to undamaged equipment, there isn't a way to get the word out. It is remarkable what many persons have survived, and how many make it through devastating storms, so let's don't jump to conclusions yet.

[Barnacle]

let's don't jump to conclusions yet.

I haven't jumped to anything.