[jimtorr]

People will look to those in authority to take over (police, firemen, etc). People will follow the orders of those who are in authority.

I think what is happening in New Orleans is that authorities were ineffective in taking over because of two main factors; they were were spread too thinly, and they had no effective leadership of their own.

[easonc52]

I think what is happening in New Orleans is that authorities were ineffective in taking over because of two main factors; they were were spread too thinly, and they had no effective leadership of their own.

And perhaps concerned about and needing to assist their own families.