Because the locals understandably are incapable of making objective decisions. Nobody wants to accept that their home is all but condemned to be destroyed. Its wishful thinking, wishful thinking that led the mayor to hesitate in hopes that the storm would shift its direction, despite warnings from expert metereologists that such a shift was highly unlikely.
So the locals are too emotionally attached to make a clear and rational decision?
I really, really dislike that line of argument.
THis being a Free country, it should be up to the owners to decide when it's time to evacuate. The job of the locals and feds is to advise. That's it.
Not true. As a Floridian who lived through three of four hurricanes last year, I can tell you it is much better handled on a local level. I live in the state known for hurricanes, yet all other states on the Gulf Coast should be as well prepared for hurricanes as we are.
If what has been said about these politicians in Looooos-iana is true, there is no excuse for them not having a plan and working that plan before now. I know they will blame George Bush for every bit of damage they suffer, but they will be the ones truly responsible.
As far as locals being understandably incapable, I'm sorry, but I don't understand it. Our Governor, Jeb Bush, is more capable than anyone in this country to handle hurricanes. Our mayors and county officials have had hurricane evacuation plans developed for many years. If these clowns were wishful thinking that New Orleans voodoo was going to save them, they were delusional.
In an answer to an idiot question from a reporter last year Jeb said this, "Hurricanes are not linear thinkers." You can't predict where they will go but you can prepare for them to hit you. Unfortunately for the people of New Orleans, wishful thinking is going to teach their politicians a very painful lesson. Hurricanes are nothing to play with and they can't be wished away.
It is disturbing to think that they have so little concern for their people. I will continue to pray for the people in the storm's path. I know how difficult these storms can be.