I don't know that I'd use the term "only" there, but yes, from what I understand that's about the number that were plucked from rooftops; I also understand that the 3000 number does not include those pulled off in boats.
If 3000 were rescued by helicopter, that will go down in history as one of the largest helicopter rescue operations in history. Kudos to those brave airmen - they must be tired.
I got the impression too that the 3000 figure was the Coast Guard copters... I imagine there were a lot more rescued from "independant" (for lack of a better word) means.
It was hard to comprehend the scope of this yesterday - and today's worse....
I heard the 3000 number also and thought, after watching those helicopter rescues with 1 adult or 2-3 kids at a time, that was an impressive number. (Trying to maintain optimism :) ).
I said it before, but I can't help say it again, I am in awe of those helicopter pilots maneuvering around electrical wires/phone lines to pluck these people off rooftops.
Am I reading your mind, or are you reading mine? :-)
I understood that was the official number; I understand about the "only" thing, but it was just disheartening to hear.