Just once, though, I would REALLY like to hear a Governor come out at a time like this and give the following speech -- with emotion:
"Ladies and Gentlemen - I am speaking directly to you residents of ___________. I am ordering a mandatory evacuation of your area tonight because of the immediate threat of ________. Let me tell you what this means.
"If you decide to stay in this area and ride out the storm, you must make arrangements for your will to be executed, because I expect a sizable percentage of you to be dead from drowning. You should know that your government will most likely be unable to save you at that time. This is precisely what I am trying to do for you right now, for once the storm begins, you will have taken responsibility for your life. I will not accept that responsibility then, since I'm doing everything possible now. Do not expect to be bailed out.
"If you happen to survive the initial onslaught, you had better have enough food, water, medicine, and other essentials for at least a week. I cannot guarantee normal services for at LEAST that long, and probably longer. Take these words into consideration as you plan the end of your life.
"So if you intend to live past ________, you MUST act NOW to get the **** OUT OF DANGER. If you ignore this warning, notify your next of kin, say your good-byes, and may God have mercy on your soul."
Thank you, that was comforting.
/s
You forgot...
"Please be sure to write your Social Security Number Across your Chest with a Waterproof Marker. This will aid in idemtifying your body, and prevent burial in a mass grave."