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Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Two separate views of Hurricane Katrina acquired 28 August 2005 from instruments aboard Envisat. The ASAR Wide Swath mode radar image of the sea surface shows how Katrina's wind fields are rippling the ocean. 
Esa's Envisat is the largest Earth observation craft ever built. Credit:EADS Astrium
The words say it all.... I need say no more than to tell you of my horror when I woke up today to the utter devastation of a lot of the Gulf Coast, New Orleans, Biloxi Etc. I had expected some damage from Hurricane Katrina, but this was unbelievable. I watched the news in a rather stunned silence. The words of the 'people' say more about this situation than I ever could....
My heart goes out to all those people who have lost their homes & family
A.P TV - New Orleans - Disaster Report*
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A.P TV - Coastguard - Rescue Report*
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ABC Radio - President Bush talk's about Hurricane Katrina & Relief Effort*
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BBC TV - New Orleans Is Decending Into Chaos 'Where Is The President' ?*
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* - All audio & video clips in RealMedia format
WWL Radio - In an interview with WWL Radio's Garland Robinette,
New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin expresses frustration
and anger at the federal government.
(August 2) - mp3
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CNN - Hurricane Katrina Aftermath - Jeanne Meserve - 30.08.05 - mp3
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After Hurricane Katrina - Footage from HurricaneLiveNet.com-wmv
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Voices Of the People
My wife, baby and I are refugees in Memphis right now. They're saying we might be able to get back home in a week to grab a few personal items and leave again for a month! My Dad stayed in our house and said that we had 10 in. of water inside. However, the pumping station by us is working and our water levels are dropping. He has no power or running water, but the land lines are still up (No cells!).
Andrew Dalio, Metairie, LA, USA
David J. Phillip/Associated PressFloodwaters from a canal that leads to Lake Ponchartrain were sending more water today into already flooded areas of New Orleans.My wife and I rode out the hurricane in a bed & breakfast. After the power failed, we ventured into the storm to seek medical attention for another of the guests that had been injured by flying glass when one of the windows was blown in by debris. We were caught up in a crowd of about 20 intent on stealing whatever wasn't destroyed. Groups were breaking into cars and stealing what they could easily remove - CDs, change and anything left inside. When the groups found a store without metal screening, they would break a large window and several people would go inside and pass anything of value to those outside to take away. I don't think it was a street gang - the group was both male and female. And they didn't bother us. It was quite frightening to watch law and order break down like that when we felt so helpless over our cell phones not working.
Jeremy, Salt Lake City, UT
Adeline Perkins carries her dog, Princess, as Lynell Batiste carries Timmy while Kewanda Batiste and Ulysses Batiste swim through the flood waters from their Lacombe, La. home on Monday, Aug. 29, 2005. (AP Photo/Mari Darr~Welch)My friend is in Alabama and in the path of the hurricane. At the time of writing this, she said there appeared to be waves up to her windows, but the power is still on. She expects the worst is yet to come (to her area) but feels safe in her flat. Her car hasn't been so lucky, however.
B. Elton, Edinburgh
My friend managed to escape the hurricane in time. They are now on their way to Austin to find refuge. Many people have come this far to find vacancies in hotels. I will be hosting seven people in my little two-bedroom apartment. What a dreary situation for all.
Ruksana , Austin, TX
The New Orleans Superdome - 'Refuge Of Last Resort'The high winds that savaged New Orleans wrecked some buildings and sent debris flying through the streets. BBC
While my brother and I are taking our chances on the tenth floor of our medical school residence hall, the rest of my family evacuated today. Unfortunately they are stuck in congested traffic with the thousands that decided to leave at the last minute. The problem is we don't even know when they will stop because nearly all the hotels in the state are already occupied!
Yazen Joudeh, New Orleans, Louisiana USA
My friend did not evacuate Gulfport, Mississippi where there is 10+ feet of water. I spoke to her the night before the hurricane. She was 15 miles inland and had to go because they wouldn't have power and she wanted to save the battery to tell us she was alright. I am hoping she was in a shelter and am distraught that I do not know that she and the children are safe. It may be weeks until they get the mobile towers operating again.
Courtney, Jacksonville, FL, United States
I am preparing supplies to bring my family following the storm. My family came to our aid last year when Hurricane Ivan struck our home in Pensacola, Florida. Now I'm returning the favor. I only hope that I will be able to reach them.
Paul Miranne, Pensacola Florida
An oil rig was broken apart in drydock, smashing into the Cochrane Bridge in Mobile, Alabama. BBCMy daughter and son in law are in Biloxi at the VA Hospital - my son in law volunteered to stay to work with patients transferred from Gulfport. My daughter is five months pregnant. They were allowed to take their 2 cats and a rabbit with them into the hospital. We have not had any news since they left their home Sunday morning. Their apartment is 2 blocks from the ocean in Biloxi, so no idea if that is still intact.
Kate Lloyd-Rees, Mississaugaa, Ontario, Canada
My wife and infant daughter went to visit our family in New Orleans. They safely evacuated to Memphis, but no electricity and no clean water is a problem when you have a baby. My mother is arranging to do what was once unthinkable, and put my 88-year old grandmother in a home in Memphis, as she can't return to New Orleans and give her proper care. Their homes are ruined. And to think we have to separate the family even more because of this one storm, is possibly the hardest reality to face.
Jacob Gaffney, London, England
My daughter is stationed aboard a naval ship on the coast in MS, I finally got a call this morning, her car is gone and there is 8' of water on the pier but she is safe! Thank God and pray for those less fortunate!
Jean Davis, Acworth, GA USA
Palm trees strained and were ripped from the ground as Katrina tore through New Orleans' empty streets. BBCMy family and I evacuated on Sunday to relatives in Northern Louisiana. Though I thought it couldn't get worse when the hurricane ruined my 17th birthday, the days after are hurting much more. Seeing pictures and hearing news of after effects of the hurricane, and not knowing about my house, about my friends, about my LIFE. It was such a sudden thing that my family didn't think to grab a lot. Everything is sitting in that house and slowly drowning under the Mississippi River. Our family income has halted, and all cell phone connection to any friends or family is down. It's such a desperate feeling, and I never imagined that it would make me angry to listen to all these new broadcasters talking about the area, because it feels like they are trying to make it seem like they care so much.
Craig Gilliam, New Orleans, LA, USA
I happened to be out of town while the storm was brewing. I caught the last flight into New Orleans on Sunday afternoon. I then rushed to secure my house the best I could and then fled west. A good friend had rescued my dog a day earlier. I'm now in Arnaudville, LA sleeping on the floor of a friend's house. I'm just contemplating what to do next.
Bryan Bowlby, New Orleans USA
My grandparents live in New Orleans and my family live in Southern Mississippi. I'm in the Air Force stationed in Turkey. I'm worried for my family, but I can't reach them because the phone lines are down. I'm sure my parents are fine because they live on a large hill, but my grandparents all live in New Orleans and I've seen no good news from there yet. All I can do is pray they repair the phone lines soon so I can call home.
Thomas, Turkey
We returned from the Gulf last Friday but even as we left, our friends believed that it was just another tropical storm on the way. By Sunday, they reported that they were evacuating to northern Mississippi and their sense of despair about the possible loss of property after so many years of hard work was clear. With the news of record surges in Mississippi we understand that our holiday photographs and memories refer to things and places that are no more.
Pippa Turney, Gassino, Italy
Elvin Duckworth, left, Jonathan Harvey, center, and Leonard Harvey paddle a row boat through a flooded street in their Gulfport, Miss, neighborhood after Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast Monday, Aug. 29, 2005.(AP Photo/John Bazemore)
All of my family live in New Orleans. My biggest worry is my parents age 81 and 82 who could not leave and stayed with other family members in a two story house. I am heartbroken and worried sick about them. It seems they may have lost everything they own. My parents are too old to start life over. Once New Orleans airport opens I will be en route to locate them and help them clean up. It's all very sad. New Orleans is such a beautiful and friendly city.
Cynthia McAllister, Ilchester, Yeovil (Somerset)
My poor city is devastated, but that is nothing compared to the heartache I feel for our neighbors in Mississippi and New Orleans. Tomorrow I hope to be able to go back to Mobile and find out what has become of my home and my friends who chose to remain.
Angela, Mobile, AL, USA
God bless the folks who live on the Gulf Coast
Chris, Homestead, FL
We still remember the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew. God bless the folks who live on the Gulf Coast - recovery is long and hard, but they will come through.
Chris, Homestead, FL
We are anxiously awaiting word from my cousin. She and her family decided not to leave their home near New Orleans. They live extremely close to the coast and last we heard the water was only two feet from their door. We are praying for their safety.
Shawna Nelson-Bradley, South Bend, US
The hotels and shelters are full and the spaces at the gas stations and shopping centers are filling up with caravans of people escaping the storm.
Elizabeth , Houston, Texas
I am originally from the Mississippi Gulf coast and have lived through numerous hurricanes but according to all of my relatives this is the worst yet. My mother's house, which I just paid for is completely destroyed. I have 5 siblings who live there and they will all be financially and mentally devastated. This hurricane has struck the poorest area of the U.S. I wish everyone good luck.
Elliotte Jacobs, London, UK
My family have a house & business in between Gulfport and Biloxi. I was speaking with them on the web cam until 7.00am their time, when they lost power. Before the phones went, I was told that they had lost their roof, barn, 2 oak trees and many pines and they were letting in water. I have not heard from them since.
Natalie McVeigh, Oakley, England
We live in the Atlanta area and last night there were tornados all around us as a result of the Hurricane's storm system. Being to the northeast of the storm's center is the worst place to be because that is where the strongest winds and water damage occur. We are hundreds of miles inland and can only imagine the damage closer to shore.
Becky, Duluth, Georgia USA
My daughter and son-in-law live in Bogalusa, LA where the strongest winds were. They evacuated but they live in a mobile home. They have not returned yet but we fear they've lost everything.
Rev Tom McMnaus, Cross Keys, Newport, Gwent
My friends and family have evacuated and are quite unsure when they will be able to return. And what they will be returning to. Parts worse hit have not been seen yet. I grew up in the New Orleans area. I am devastated and pray we can over come this.
R Poy, Jersey City, New Jersey, USA
Floodwaters from Hurricane Katrina cover a portion of New Orleans, La., Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2005, a day after Katrina passed through the city. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)This storm is incredible. I reside on the campus of the University of Mississippi. Trees have fallen and the rain is torrential. And Oxford is over 300 miles from the coast. This will definitely be the most expensive natural disaster in American history.
John Shearin, Oxford, MS, USA
My cousins and I went to Houston, TX before the traffic backed up too much, thank goodness because we had 4 adults, 1 baby, 2 dogs, and 5 cats with us over 2 cars. I know my neighborhood flooded, but I heard only 5 feet of water which is better than in parts of the city that were completely submerged. I fear what we have to return to, and I am anxious to find out when we are allowed to return. I don't think my place of work will be infrastructuraly ready for business for a long time and I wonder how long I will have to go with no income. We faired better than many residents, though, and I am thankful we are safe. I hope there was no loss of life in New Orleans. It is too early to tell.
Nina, New Orleans, USA
Baton Rouge, while never in the path of the hurricane has been experiencing rain on and off since Sunday night. Louisiana State University here has closed down for two days. Most residents on the ground floor of my apartment complex have sandbags outside their doors in case of flooding. This morning the electricity went off around 9am and came back on only at 4pm. It rained during this time and there were gusts of wind from time to time. A street nearby has incurred some damage with some really old trees splitting into half and falling onto the road. But otherwise most people here seem to be safe and dry and we can only hope that nearby New Orleans and other affected parishes get back onto their feet as soon as possible.
Sirisha, Baton Rouge, USA
All of our houses, including those of my parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and grandparents are reported to be under at least eight feet of water. With the exception of me, who is away at veterinary school in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, my entire family is homeless. Even best case scenario, all of their houses are severely damaged and uninhabitable for weeks if not months.
L Esposito, Chalmette, La
I fled the city last Saturday and relocated with many in my office to Monroe LA. Every hotel to Dallas is full. It's late and I just heard from a phone call on television that a levee on the 17th Street canal has breeched and the lake is pouring into the city. I took a chance and stayed when Ivan hit and I was lucky. I took no chances this time. Thanks to satellite images and the web we all knew this was bad. This is your space program at work.
Rick Baxter, New Orleans, USA
My family of 9 have evacuated from our seaside home which I spent 20 years working on and where all my effort went. Now I know that material possessions are worthless and only family counts.
Al Jorggenson, New Orleans, Louisiana
The remnants of Hurricane Katrina, now a "modest tropical storm" are just now coming up to steam in the Memphis, Tennessee Area. We're experiencing extremely heavy winds and my wind gauge has just registered a 72 mile per hour burst. Numerous trees are down in the area and the creeks and stream are already full. We have several hours of this to go yet. Coming off of a 4 week dry spell, I thought that the ground would absorb much of this water. However, it appears that the sun baked the clay soil so thoroughly that most water is running off resulting in an amplification of the flooding. Many neighborhoods in the area have suffered extreme wind damage from trees and debris. Power is out in many areas. This is less than 1 half the power of Katrina at landfall and it is still causing damage 350 miles inland. Peace all and have a pleasant morning.
Jim Pike, Memphis, TN
Before going on an helicopter tour of the New Orleans, Kenner, Metairie, Arabi, Slidell and Mandeville areas to assess the extent of Hurricane Katrina damage, Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco, center, expresses her concern for the victims Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2005, in Baton Rouge, La. Blanco is surrounded by, from left, Louisiana National Guard Major General Bennett Landreneau, U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-La, FEMA director Mike Brown and U.S. Sen. David Vitter, R-La. (AP Photo/Bill Feig, Pool)Here in Mobile, there has been some flooding, but nowhere nearly as devastating as I thought as the storm approached. Even here in midtown, I lost power for no more than two hours this afternoon. There have been a few evacuations due to flooding. I was really surprised that midtown/downtown wasn't evacuated, being so close to the bay. I live at the Alabama school of math and science, which have very old buildings. However, I've seen no leaks or flooding, and we still have a roof!
Denise, Mobile, Al, USA
The remnants of Katrina are now pouring down outside my apartment here in Nashville. In preparation for what could potentially be substantial flooding, many schools are closed on Tuesday. Tornadoes are also causing concern, as we just sit tight, hoping for the best.
Marion M, Nashville, TN, USA
We've lost power here in Atmore (parent's home) but no damage on level with Dennis much less Ivan. We have all friends and family accounted for except for an Aunt and Uncle in Tammany Parish that we are very worried about. They are most likely safe as my Uncle is an RN so would have to be at the hospital and my Aunt probably as well. I also have no idea about my apartment in Mobile, or my job as I work for the Alabama State Port Authority and it looks like that area of Mobile got hit pretty bad.
Matt Johnson, Mobile, Alabama, USA
I am in the midst of the hurricane at the moment, on the south shore of Lake Ponchatrain. The eyewall is currently passing just east of here. Although the wind gusts are extremely forceful, filling the streets with branches and roof slates, all structures in this neighborhood seem to be holding up well. The drains are clear and working well. Electricity, water, and radio reception are all gone. We are all hoping that the worst will soon be over.
Lori Frey Ribeiro, New Orleans, USA
Jill Nicholson of Gulfport, Miss., shakes her head as she walks past the President Casino barge Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2005, in Biloxi, Miss. The barge was ripped from its safety mooring by Hurricane Katrina(AP Photo/Rogelio Solis)I have just spoken with my close friend once more (14.55 BST). He says that metal objects are flying along the streets and hotel room windows have shattered in nearby rooms. Having spent the last half an hour on the floor in his bathroom he has now gone downstairs to the lobby to be with others as the swaying of the building was too much to cope with alone.
Justine Ellis, London
I am presently at my job at a large federal hospital in Biloxi, Mississippi. Through my window I can see Biloxi Back Bay and the surges look to be about four feet. Soon it should washing up to our parking lot, which is about 100 feet from our hospital. Normally the Bay is like glass. Also, the intense winds (probably about 150 miles per hour) are blowing debris and chunks of the roof. Listening to the radio I already heard that homes have been destroyed on the Mississippi Coast and Highway 90 (Beach Blvd) is under water. Those familiar with Biloxi is where the large casinos are. The problem is the eye of the storm is not due for about another four hours, hope we make it.
Alan Cooper, Gautier, Mississippi
It is now 2:25 pm EST 8/29/05. As I write there are tree cutting crews repairing the electric service. Our teenage children are still dragging limbs and debris to a large pile at the curb. I am lucky I drive an old tall 4x4 truck. Anything smaller would not have made it out due to flood waters over 1/2 meter deep on many streets. I have put myself on a list of people to go help after the second landfall.
William, Homestead, FL
My sister is on vacation in New Orleans now. She could not get an airplane, bus, or train ticket to leave. The rental car company cancelled her reservation. She and her companion had no choice but to take refuge in their hotel with provisions provided by the management. Currently it is not possible to contact her, I hope that she is safe.
Douglas H., Oakland, USA
I moved from London to New Orleans a few weeks ago, and had just settled into the city. I was lucky enough to get one of the last flights out of the city before they were grounded, but evacuating was a terrifying experience. I am now in Houston, waiting for any information on what state my home will be in when I return. If I have learnt anything, though, the people of New Orleans have incredible spirit and tenacity and whatever damage is done, I have no doubt that the city will rise up to be bolder and brassier than ever.
Sara, New Orleans
Damage to the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino along U.S. Highway 90 in Biloxi, Miss., is shown Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2005, after Hurricane Katrina's landfall Monday along the Gulf Coast. The $235 million hotel and 50,000-square-foot casino was due to open shortly. (AP Photo/John David Mercer)Things here in Jackson, MS are deteriorating steadily. The governor was just on the radio stating that his worst fear was that there were 'a lot of people dead down there'. As yet, no-one can get to the coast, and only scattered reports are coming through as to the extent of the damage. Lots of small limbs have flown off trees here and I saw a number of pine trees already fallen on my last trip outside until this thing blows over.
James Bishop, Jackson, MS, USA - Formally Norwich, England.
We fled New Orleans on Saturday afternoon before the panic started, our house is right in the middle of the garden district and although we secured everything the best we could I doubt there will be anything left to go back to. It's so frustrating to not know what is happening to our home
Leslie Smith, Houston, Texas
I lived in Baton Rouge for awhile and still have friends in both Baton Rouge and New Orleans. I spoke to my Baton Rouge friend yesterday (Sunday). Baton Rouge ended up on the west side of Katrina so they are doing o.k. Power is out, however, in parts of the city. Lots of people from New Orleans have flooded into Baton Rouge. LSU has cancelled classes in order to use university facilities for the people escaping from New Orleans and other south Louisiana areas. Very crowded roadways in Baton Rouge.
Carmen, St. Louis, Missouri
I work with a group of Catholic nuns in the city, who are opening there home to the poor and offering prayers through the storm
Liam Fox, Baton Rouge
I'm quite concerned for the people of New Orleans. Here in Coral Gables (Miami), we got the weak end of the storm (Category 1) and way more damage than I had expected occurred. So many beautiful large trees are down, windows blasted out, and some buildings were completely destroyed. Down the street where I live a car was resting on its top. We were fortunate.
Shannon, Miami (Coral Gables), FL, USA
We are anxiously awaiting word from my cousin. She and her family decided not to leave their home near New Orleans. They live extremely close to the coast and last, we heard the water was only two feet from their door. We are praying for their safety.
Shawna Nelson-Bradley, South Bend, US
I'm from Cut Off, Louisiana. Its about one and a half hours south of New Orleans. The hurricane passed right over my family's home, they have gone to north Louisiana for safety. I'm not sure if there will be anything left when they get back home. Even if the wind has left the house standing, the flooding has probably destroyed it. Me and my husband were meant to move back home next month, now we are not sure if there will be anything to move back to. I'm just glad that my family is safe from harm.
Sara Brown, Dunstable, England
Alabama Gov. Bob Riley surveys damage to beach houses along Dauphin Island, Ala., Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2005, a day after Hurricane Katrina's landfall along the Gulf Coast. (AP Photo/John David Mercer, Pool)
Reading the accounts of the situation in the Stadium has been a great consolation to us as we have a daughter, Penny, who is stranded there and no means of communication with her now. Thank you!
Christine Roberts, Southampton, England
I live 45 miles north of Key West, we were told not to worry, hurricane not coming to the Florida Keys, so nobody prepared. When it hit us at 2am Friday it was only a category 1 so it was basically a hard rain storm with strong winds. The greatest damage came from the tornadoes it spawned, one of which went through the harbour and damaged boats. It swamped my dingy and almost sank my sailboat with rain accumulation. But today the sun is shining and damages are being cleaned up. We got off easy. New Orleans and Mississippi are going to have catastrophic damage and lost lives. Send help there.
P Witt, Marathon Key, Florida
My 22-year-old daughter is in the Superdome stadium at the moment. We had a brief conversation as she cannot afford mobile phone payment, as she is at the end of a 5 week holiday. She reports she is with a group of backpackers; had to queue for 4 hours to get in; the soldiers (National Guard) were looking after things; she is being well-fed; everything in the stadium is very well-organized, and things are calm there; the noise of the storm is terrific.
Christine Robertson, London, UK
This is the third time in a year I've evacuated with a major hurricane churning in the Gulf, heading my way. A few million people share this fate, as you never know exactly where the storm will come ashore, bringing conditions ranging from a summer rainstorm, to catastrophic flooding and building failure. My best wishes go to all Gulf residents in Katrina's warning area, from Morgan City, to Pensacola.
Mrs Scibard, Montrose, Alabama
I feel so lucky to have survived Katrina with such minimal damage. I lost power on Thursday and just got it restored last night. After living in the hot Florida heat for a few days I am so thankful for electricity, we felt we were literally living in hell's heat. Lots of big trees blocked my streets for two days. Now thankfully everything is going back to normal. Kids are back in school, street lights are back up and people are slowly but surely recovering. I pray for the unfortunate people in Louisiana. All our neighbourhood got together to pray for them. We feel we got off easy.
Marci Martinez, Hollywood, Florida, USA
I have a friend on holiday there and we are scared for their safety as we do not have any idea where they are. We believe they are at the home there with storm shutters. I believe that is all. I'm really scared for there safety.
Michael Preston, Tiptree, Essex
I got the last flight out to San Francisco just in time, but I am separated and cannot get in touch with my husband who fled for Florida at the last minute. I have already given up hope for my car and first floor of my home - I am most concerned for the people I love as well as those New Orleans residents who did not have the funds or transportation to evacuate. They will be sitting in a very hot environment for a few days. It's the heat and lack of water that will really be devastating to the people in the area. It is so surreal to be here on the beautiful west coast where very few people even know that Katrina exists.
Marie, New Orleans, LA
Miami Beach was hit by hard winds causing trees to be uprooted, snap in half and some crashed into houses. I was very lucky, I did not have severe damage to my home. My thoughts and prayers are with the residents of New Orleans.
Olga , Miami Beach, USA
My roommate and I, both graduate students at LSUHSC, evacuated Saturday afternoon, having learned our lesson when we ran away from Ivan that sooner is certainly better. Through the dread, the worry, and finally turning off the blasted "GAME OVER, MAN" reports and forecasts, we have settled into an uneasy round of quipping about how my car will meet a glorious end and what we will do if our school is destroyed (amongst other things). Seeing the storm finally come to pass, indeed the worst is not here - but what is coming will be a slightly more bearable form of, for lack of a better term, complete suckage.
Amy Whittington, New Orleans, LA
Levee Break, New Orleans, AP Photo
My husband has a friend, Jon, who is riding out Katrina in NOLA. He lives on the ground floor and has no family, so we're really worried that if something happens to him, we won't have any way to find out. I'm also worried that there are many people in Nawlins who simply don't have the money or ability to get out of the city. The levees are massive, but they weren't built for this.
Kaz, Briton in NJ, USA
My Sister and her three children live in Pearl River, they managed to get away to a relatives and will be safe. My brother-in-law is a New Orleans Police Officer and has had to stay in New Orleans, my thoughts are with him and all the people of New Orleans.
Jane, Bedfordshire, England
Living in a suburb of Miami the eye of Katrina passed over on Thursday night taking our power and water with it. Both are now thankfully restored but many trees lost to the storm will take weeks, if not months to be cleared away (the Gables is known as the city beautiful for its vegetation). Having experienced Andrew, I would say this storm actually damaged more trees though the structural damage appears to be much less, at least here in Miami. I'm hoping for the best for the Gulf coast.
Greta Mackenzie, Coral Gables, Florida
Well, what a day! Escaped New Orleans at the last minute to bed down in a ballroom in Alexandria. Lots of people here glued to the news.
Elizabeth, New Orleans Refugee
I live in Evansville, Indiana which is some 800 inland and to the east of New Orleans but we will feel the effects of the hurricane in the form of some winds and lots of rain added to a ground that is already water-logged with flood warnings already on the menu, but all in all we are lucky not to be hit by the brunt of the storm. Where we will feel the effects will be in the rise of oil prices because of the shutting down of oil rigs in The Gulf of Mexico.
Charlie Foley, Evansville, Indiana
A close friend is trapped in his hotel in New Orleans. He was unable to get hold of a hire car, or a flight out. He is shocked that an airline even flew him in to New Orleans as late on as Saturday. He is on the ninth floor. Although there are storm shutters low down there are none in the guest rooms. He has simply been told to shut the curtains to keep out shattering glass. He says the winds are presently 30mph and even this is driving waves of water down the street, the likes of which he has never seen before.
Justine Ellis, London
After a 12-hour ride from New Orleans to Jackson (the trip would normally take 3 hours) we are holed up in a school gymnasium. Everyone is bracing for the full brunt of the hurricane sometime tomorrow. All laptops and televisions are on some weather channel. The wind has picked up but not to any speed that would signal what is likely to be a story many will be talking about for the rest of the year. All foreign students from around the globe (myself included) are keeping constant contact with family and friends. The question on most people's minds is how deadly will Katrina's kiss be?
Masimba Fortune Ngandu, New Orleans, USA
I am a US ex-pat living in Reading, but originally from New Orleans. Thankfully, my family have all been able to evacuate to safe havens. This is a very scary situation, and what everyone has feared for quite a long time. All we can do is pray and hope for the best for everyone involved.
D Reese, Reading, UK
My son arrived in New Orleans to do his second year degree at Tulane University. He had not unpacked his bags when he was told to evacuate. He fled the city with two others and is now in Houston, Texas.
Paul Hague, Walberton, West Sussex
I came to England for a much needed 5 week vacation to be with my boyfriend. I was supposed to fly back on Sunday 28th but the New Orleans airport closed because of the storm. So now I'm here till at least Wednesday. I hope that my friends and family are all OK and I actually have something to return home to. My thoughts are with everyone in Louisiana going through this hurricane.
Jennifer Durst, Surrey, England but from Baton Rouge
My husband and I lived in Mobile last year when Ivan hit Alabama and tore a strip of devastation through the state. As we were only renting an apartment we volunteered for Red Cross duties and rode ERVs (emergency response vehicles) delivering hot meals, snacks, water, cleaning materials, diapers, etc to small communities twice a day. The Baptist Church in Tennessee sent a mobile kitchen and volunteers to prepare the meal and volunteers from California and Washington state drove ERVs across the country to help the people worst effected by Ivan. One Indian reservation we served was a two hour drive from the kitchen so our days were long but very rewarding as the people were so thankful to all the voluntary agencies helping them through a very difficult time. Also it was accidents with power lines and clearing the debris which took more lives than the storm. Our thoughts are with all along the Gulf Coast.
Chris Colby, Meols
My wife, niece and myself were staying with friends in New Orleans on the West Bank in Orleans Parish. On Saturday they told us to leave as they were going to Houston that afternoon so I had to drive to the airport to try and change our bookings, I managed that and then had to drive back to the house and have a frantic pack as we had 45 minutes to do that before leaving for the airport. As we took off over I-10 we could see that it was already packed westbound. I believe that we were some of the last international travellers to leave. I knew something serious was up as the toll bridge was open (free) on all gates.
John C Kent, London, England
In Miami, we were affected. Trees fell around my neighbourhood. We are also without electricity at the present time. We are also picking up fallen debris. A Bridge between Highway 836 and 97th Ave. fell.
Roberto Alvarez-Galloso, CPUR, Miami, Florida
President George W. Bush looks out over the devastation in New Orleans from Hurricane Katrina as he heads back to Washington D.C. Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2005, aboard Air Force One. White House photo by Paul MorseI live in The Netherlands but almost my entire family lives in New Orleans: my elderly parents - my mother suffering from severe arthritis and heart disease, my bi-polar father, my 59-year-old sister also suffering for heart disease, my brother and his two children. My family, as many others, have chosen not to seek shelter in the Superdome and do not have the financial means to leave the city. What's best for them is to ride it out, ride it out in my sister's 200 year old wooden shotgun double standing 4 feet above the ground. I hope and pray to whatever supreme being that may exist to navigate this storm out of the path of New Orleans. I have no means of contacting my people, the phones lines are jammed, I feel cut off from them in more way than one. Two days ago I was feeling a bit homesick, downloading New Orleans tunes from the internet. One of the last downloads "New Orleans is Sinking" refused to come through, let's hope and pray that it never does.
Stephanie, The Netherlands
My father is on a cargo ship which docked in New Orleans just a few days ago. All that I know is that they are somewhere on the Mississippi trying to ride out Hurricane Katrina. While everyone is evacuated my father and his friends have to stay there because they didn't have enough time to escape. I really worry about them...
Lukasz, Szczecin, Poland
I just spoke to my friend who lives in Mobile, Alabama, he thinks he will ride out the storm although I requested him to come down here. I can only pray and hope he is alright. Winds of 160 miles is not kidding around.
Srinivas, Beaumont , TX, USA
Dave Martin/Associated PressParts of New Orleans were under as much as 20 feet of water.
Relatively lucky here - only 100 mph winds expected on top of un-repaired damages from Dennis, a month ago and Ivan.
Ian Rogers, Pensacola, Florida
My husband and I were fortunate to get out on one of the last flights from New Orleans this morning. To do this we had to abandon our vacation, starting yesterday morning, and get on the phone, to the airport, and on a standby list. We told many people in the French Quarter that already cars and flights were rapidly becoming unavailable, but unfortunately the news fell upon many deaf ears. As we arrived to check in for our early flight we were greeted by thousands of people desperate to leave the city, and when our flight took off over the city at 6am on Sunday morning we could see the traffic chaos below us. We feel very fortunate that our persistence paid off, and we send our thoughts and prayers to all who will have to endure the brutality of this storm.
Kristin Delcamp, Denver, CO
It is 3am in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and it is raining a bit with no wind. Katrina is about 80 miles away from New Orleans and my house somehow still has power (the answer phone still works). I hope I still have a home, a city and the best pub in New Orleans (The Crown and Anchor) in the morning!
George Kocke, New Orleans
I am here in London having completed a Charity Tube Challenge for the London Bombing Victims on 8-25-05 and unable to get home to New Orleans. I am a police Captain and feel totally helpless as I am unable to help my city and my family. I don't know where my family has gone. I came here to help raise money by completing all 275 tube stations in 20 hours with a group of UK citizens. I hope to have a home to go back to when I do get home. I appreciate all the prayers and support.
Tami Brisset, New Orleans in London now
My fiancée went to New Orleans on Saturday and she didn't know the dangers of going there, now she is stuck as there is no form of transport out of the city, I'm angry at the person who invited her there, her friends auntie, she could have told them not to go, now she is in great danger and will have to stay in the hotel to wait for the storm to finish. I am absolutely worried sick and I last spoke to her yesterday, don't think I can get in contact as the phone lines were to be cut, all I can do is wait in hope, even when it's over she will find it hard to leave because of all the flooding. I'm praying to god her and everyone else survives this.
James Williams, Edinburgh United Kingdom
I have many friends in New Orleans and I travel there a lot - I am thinking of them every minute - I have been unable to contact anyone by phone so I am just hoping they moved out before the rush.
Valerie Caldwell, Leamington Spa, England
My house is in the middle of New Orleans. I was lucky enough to live in the crescent city whilst I was working as a cameraman and decided to buy a house there. The selection process is quite complicated as certain areas are prone to flood so you have to research well before you buy. I eventually settled on Magazine Street, a fairly safe neighbourhood but I am now watching what could be the end of the big easy and my home from home. This is a massive loss and one that will be felt for years to come. I am unemployed now so can't even afford to fly back to pick up the pieces. My ex wife (who lives in the house) will be left to mop up. My heart goes out to my friends there.
Noel Wyatt s.o.c., Derby
I'm originally from New Orleans, now doing an internship with the UNDP here in India. I'm concerned for my family and friends back home. The river is held in place by levee walls but is meant to travel a different course. People have always said if a big storm hits it could make the river shift and wipe out the city and some of the small towns nearer to the gulf. Let's hope it doesn't happen, but let it be a warning for the future.
Khalil Shahyd, New Delhi, India
I live in an apartment in New Orleans and didn't have plywood to put up over my windows, so I do not expect my home to fare very well from the storm. I am in Baton Rouge now, staying up late and watching the storm. Pictures from the local news channels here show the French Quarter nearly completely deserted, which is a very bizarre sight. I do not know what is going to happen, but at this point I am steeling myself for the possibility that I will lose everything except what I brought with me, including my job.
WS, New Orleans, USA
I am born and raised in the New Orleans area. I rode out hurricane Betsy in New Orleans. We had over three feet of water in the street inside the New Orleans city limits. This hurricane is much, much worse. All of New Orleans could be underwater in a matter of hours.
Dan McGovern, Slidell, La
Our house is about 2 blocks from the levee that guards us from Lake Pontchartrain so we evacuated on Saturday to try and stay ahead of the heavy traffic. After making it around the contraflow we managed to go west to Houston to stay at a friend's flat. Our 12 day old son took the 11 hour drive pretty good so we are happy about that. At this point, we are just hoping that our home will still be standing when we eventually return. Most of our family has evacuated but a few are staying behind on the northshore of the lake to watch over their homes. We hope that we will get to return to our home soon.
Ken Armond, Metairie, LA USA
It is 4.05 pm here in Metairie, LA. which is an upscale suburb of New Orleans and has about the same population. Our three-storey home is located directly on Lake Pontchartrain and is protected by a 20-foot levee bullt and maintained by the US Army corp of Engineers. Lake Pontchartrain is actually a bay of the Gulf of Mexico and not actually a lake.
We have decided to ride out the storm as we have a small generator and our home has steel beam construction. It was built to withstand hurricane force winds. The vast majority of our neighbours, however, with wood frame constructed homes have left (or are trying to leave as the traffic is at a stand still) for higher ground.
William Shiell, Metairie, Louisiana
I'm almost at the LA/MS border, right in the projected path of the storm. Most people have left though a few of us are staying. Using Camille as a guide, I am well out of the storm surge danger though in an evacuation area. The main risk is falling trees (Southern Pines snap off) but I'm not really worried because none can really get to the house.
The contraflow (all lanes of the Interstate highways head outbound) seems to work pretty well. I'm about 1/4 from a major junction and traffic didn't seem nearly as bad as last year during Ivan. The biggest headache will be when the power/internet finally fails. My emergency generator is on loan in Gulfport 40 miles east and I can't fetch it.
It is hot and humid and will be miserable without A/C or DVD movies. I'm waiting for the first rain band to cross so I can finish up outside.
Tim Kooney, Slidell, LA
I grew up in New Orleans. I now live in Lafayette about 140 miles west of there. My family still has there home there. They have evacuated to Arkansas. My sister-in-law's aunt has decided to stay in New Orleans through the storm. I hope that she will be alright and gets to a safe building. There is expected to be tropical storm force winds where I am. Now the only thing to do is wait and see what the storm does.
Daryl, Lafayette, LA, USA
The city may flood and be 12-18 feet underwater for weeks on end - very scary stuff
Andy Lee, New Orleans
So far here we just have a lot of refugees from New Orleans, gas stations starting to run out of gas, no ice, and some anticipated business losses from planned shut-downs. . . and a beautiful afternoon . . . but this is a major killer storm.
Some people are going to get hurt and the property damages are going to be massive. Just where the axe is going to fall the hardest is not yet certain. Andrew left us without power for 10 days and blew in zillions of mosquitoes from the swamps. It was like a biblical plaque. As long as we are OK, I am happy. If we are OK, keep power, and don't have mosquitoes, I'll be ecstatic.
Kurt, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
I'm an exchange student from Keele in England on exchange to Loyola University New Orleans. I've only been here a week but have had to evacuate to further west in Louisiana near Lafayette, with my friends from uni! At the moment we don't know what's gonna happen and how bad it's gonna get!
Koel, new orleans, USA
My family has evacuated to 100 miles north of the city - we aren't sure if that is far enough. We expect that we will be kept out of the city for at least a week, possibly much longer. At least we are safe, but we are prepared for the worst, possibly loss of our 50-year-old home, our belongings, our keepsakes. The city may flood and be 12-18 feet underwater for weeks on end. Very scary stuff, and unprecedented in a US city.
Andy Lee, New Orleans, LA, USA
Our three hundred year old home, which has been in our family since it was built, is located about 3/4 of a mile from a levee. We don't expect to see much of it when we return and that hurts. However our family, our pets, and our memories should be safe in the refuge we are heading to in Houston. I pray for those who could not find a way out of the city. I believe this will devastate the city I love with all my heart.
Sharron, New Orleans USA
U.S. Coast Guard, via European Pressphoto AgencyA member of the Coast Guard hoisted two children from their rooftop into a rescue helicopter.
My son just flew into New Orleans yesterday morning, and even before he checked into his dorm at Tulane University, he was told they would be evacuated to a safe place up north. What an orientation to his university as a Freshman! But he has had other adventures in Asia this year, and so this is kinda icing the cake of challenges this year.
Pramod K. Mishra, Rock Island, USA
We're lying a little to the east of where everyone is projecting the path to come, but we're not taking any chances. Our Naval base has evacuated and the city is getting ready for it, with the devastating hurricane Ivan(2004) still fresh in everyone's minds. I just hope and pray that the loss of life is minimal. Good luck to all.
Sean Merritt, Pensacola, FL, USA
I grew up in Illinois - tornado country - and have lived through my fair share of hearing the warning siren, rounding up the cats, and heading to the basement to wait out the danger. I can't imagine what it must be like to pack up your car and drive away, not knowing whether you'll have a home to go back to. I'll be watching events as they unfold - with my heart in my mouth.
Dorothy Rothschild, Fife, Scotland
If you are foolish enough to try and ride this storm out, please consider the 20-30 foot expected storm swell and the fact that it will coincide with high tide. Pick a place to shelter that is high enough that you won't drown, and strong enough that it won't collapse.
AC, LA
Melanie Bosarge walks near the remains of her condo, the only one left standing out of 20 units, Tuesday Aug. 30, 2005 in Pascagoula, (AP Photo/Rob Carr)I've had calls from about 30 people, asking me to accommodate them as they evacuate from New Orleans and points south. Half-a-dozen have already arrived, and more (some with travel trailers and RVs) are expected during the course of Sunday, but some have not yet left, and I don't know whether they'll be able to get out, now that the evacuation routes are gridlocked. Even here, a couple of hundred miles away from New Orleans, we've been warned to expect tropical-storm conditions, so we're not out of the woods yet. I don't know whether my friends will have homes left to return to when all this is over, as New Orleans seems likely to be underwater by this time on Monday.
Peter Grant, Alexandria, Louisiana, USA
The scene here looks like something from the apocalypse. People are running around the city, terrified about what to do. Those who are leaving have clogged the roadways so extensively that little hope remains for those who have not yet decided to leave. Gas stations are breeding grounds for fighting and riots, as people are resorting to a state of martial law in order to get the precious gasoline they need to move their vehicles. This truly is the worst part of the storm and it only looks to get worse. God be with everyone who is trying to escape the madness.
Sam Morrison, New Orleans, LA USA
I am from Pailton, Warwickshire, England. I am travelling after working at a summer camp. Me and my friends are stuck in New Orleans and have no way of getting out! We were supposed to have a flight to New York on the 29th September but it has been cancelled and now there is a possibility that we cannot fly until the 1st September or even longer! All of the shops are putting boards up over their windows and most shops are closed by law. It is frustrating because we need water and food. we managed to find one shop and the prices were very expensive. We are not scared that we will get injured - just at the fact we cannot get out!
Stuart Bird, New Orleans, USA
All the motorways are jammed with people fleeing. Many folks are going to try and ride it through, we have been through so many near misses in the past three years, it can be expensive to evacuate. The nearest hotels with vacancies are over 8 hours drive away. The worst place to be is in your car when the storm hits.
Chris Tebboth, Abita Springs, Louisiana
We have a young niece currently stranded in New Orleans - along with friends she has taken shelter in the Super Bowl sports stadium, one of the few "safe" places. Although the Mayor is telling the public to evacuate the city there are no planes, trains, buses or cars available to be had. Although the National Guard has been mobilised there are no plans to lay on any transport to evacuate those who do not have their own! The people now stranded in the city have no option but to wait for the hurricane to hit.
Pippa Rickard, USA
The city is in a state of chaos. After many instances of "near-misses" this could very well be "The Big One." The fear in the eyes of citizens here is evident, from the regular person to the highest of state and local officials. Please pray for everyone in this great city and state.
Shawn, New Orleans, USA
I've just left New Orleans - having spent the last three months working there - and flown to Houston. The feeling around the city is one of fear. This could be The Big One that everyone who has lived in The Big Easy knows could come at any time... I hope that everyone gets out safely... My housemates are starting the crawl out of the city now in a car - it's going to take up to five hours to get out of the city limits.
Gideon Habel, Houston, TX
The Cheveron Pascagoula Refinery is shown flooded out by the storm surge caused by Hurricane Katrina in a Pascagoula, Miss., Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2005. (AP Photo/John David Mercer, Pool)
My family and I have evacuated New Orleans ahead of Katrina. It took us seven hours to reach Jackson, a drive which normally totals just under three hours. Evacuation is a fact of life for residents of the Gulf Coast.
Jeremy, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
My entire family lives right on Lake Ponchartrain, just to the east of New Orleans, where I used to live, in Slidell, LA. They left this morning, after boarding up the houses, heading east toward Pensacola, Florida. They said it's the only way out anymore, since the roads heading north and west are gridlocked... practically parking lots. My thoughts and prayers are with my beautiful city and the people who live there, especially the poor who have no way out. This is the worst case scenario we've all been waiting for. By the Grace of God may we all survive this and have a home to return to on Wednesday.
Kirche Zeile, New York, USA
We boarded up our 180-year-old wood house and evacuated New Orleans yesterday to Houston, Texas. Do not expect much to be remaining when we return.
Kevin O'Shaughnessy, United States
My boyfriend lives in New Orleans and is evacuating right now. He just called to say he doesn't know when we'll be able to speak again as they've been told power lines may be down for weeks so no emails, phones or cell phones once the batteries have run down. It's strange to think such a huge buzzing city will be so isolated even once the worst of the storm has passed. I'm just hoping everyone will be safe.
Fiorella Ferrante, London, England
My girlfriend goes to school in New Orleans and is being made to evacuate the city. I'm pretty certain she'll be safe, but I'm worried about the damage to the school and other buildings.
David Jarvis, Tokyo, Japan
New Orleans is pretty much being evacuated at the moment. Many of the people I'm here at Louisiana State University with in Baton Rouge are from New Orleans and are frightened they might not have homes to return to in a couple of days. They're especially concerned for their families, and the university has cancelled classes on Monday and possibly Tuesday to allow people to be with their loved ones.
Thomas, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA originally from London
My brother lives and works in New Orleans. I have been in touch with him the last few days and he, like other residents, was preparing to get out of the city. Having a relative there makes this much more than just dramatic news to follow on the net and TV from thousands of miles. I hope now for minimum damage and safety for all... and for him in particular, of course.
Kolya, Kisumu, Kenya
I live right here in the projected path of Katrina. I just awoke this Sunday morning and checked the weather and see the storm is now 150+ MPH. At this moment it is a beautiful morning - but it is time to flee North. Louisiana has implemented a contra flow plan on its interstate highways- allowing traffic from the New Orleans area more road to evacuate on. Mostly, people are travelling west towards the Texas border- I will go North to family in Memphis. I have never experienced a storm of the severity Katrina appears to be and I hope I have a home to return to, and that other people take appropriate precautions and remains safe. Honesty, I have never worried about a storm coming here before, but I am worried about this one.
Alex Bush, Mandeville, USA
We moved from New Orleans to Baton Rouge three years ago. We have 10 family members (refugees) coming to wait out the storm - it will be a crowded (and worried) house. Please join us in praying that no one will be hurt as the storm hits. Things can be replaced - people can't be.
Craig Wiseman, Baton Rouge, La., US
My sister-in-law and her family are visiting us in Pennsylvania. Their home is 60 miles east of New Orleans and on the Mississippi coast. They did not make preparations prior to leaving home a week ago. Katrina was not forecast to go near their home at that time. It will be a long week for them as they watch TV, not knowing conditions at home. They have two boats in the marina and outdoor items on patios, etc. These present danger as they can become airborne in a storm. For any of your readers who have not been to the gulf coast, it is very, very low country, full of charm, but not made for storm surge and wind.
Sharon, Pennsylvania, USA
My girlfriend in New Orleans has evacuated and has relocated to a hotel in Birmingham, Alabama. I am using the BBC news and weather service to keep tabs on things, but I think it is now time to board up the windows! I am due to go back there at the beginning of September. Katrina is angry and she's headed for Louisiana! Good luck everyone there!
Mark Westguard, St Cyrus, Scotland
Natives of Broward County, my husband and I are both wary of, and experienced with, hurricanes and severe thunderstorms. While we try to take each occasion seriously, a Category 1 is not much stronger than many of our severe summer storms. Just to be safe, we put down the shutters, brought everything inside and then spent the evening, exclaiming, "Wow! This is so much worse than we expected! Look over there!" One street away, a man was killed by a falling fichus. By 1830 (only an hour after the weaker eastern eye wall passed over us), our power lines had wrestled with the neighbouring tree in a losing battle, and lay like silly-string across the side yard. They remain there now. Three days later, we still are without power, and I am in exile at my office writing this piece. Our experience, and that of many family, friends and neighbours across the area, compelled me to write, in the hopes that people in Alabama and Louisiana will take the storm very seriously. The 60-80 mph winds here brought down 60-foot trees, picked up 4000 lb planes, tossing them like model toys, and ripped down power lines 60 miles from the storm's centre. For my part, I cannot imagine the damage a Category 5, or even 4, storm would have done to our city. My thoughts are with the people of the gulf coast.
Gretchen Harkins, Fort Lauderdale, FL USA
Dave Martin/Associated PressA young man waded through chest-deep flood water after looting a grocery store in New Orleans.
Another hurricane coming at us or near at us. I live between Mobile, Alabama and Pensacola, Florida at city of Daphne Alabama where Ivan and Dennis have landed. I don't like the US Hurricane Center and think they could give better warnings and greater time to prepare people. I make my own forecasts based on what I see and use the UK MET model extensively and the forecasts of Accuweather.com. I have always come close in my forecasts for the Northern Gulf coast and Katrina appears to be aiming hit on the US Gulf Coast between New Orleans and Mobile Alabama at this time based upon splitting the difference between the UK MET and US Navy NOGAPS weather models and observing satellite animations. Pray for us as we will need it here.
Richard Barkett, Mobile, Alabama USA
I think many people didn't expect the hurricane to swing south, nor did they expect so much rain from a Category One. It's very messy in Miami Beach, with many uprooted trees. South Miami/Dade got the brunt of it: there is flooding in many places and some downed construction. Apparently there was even a case of a confused alligator swimming through one of the flooded neighbourhoods.
Gabi, Miami Beach, Florida, USA
The storm clouds are gathering over here on the west coast, the Gulf of Florida. The clouds, part of the feeder bands of the hurricane, are whipping across the sky. With the hurricane still in the Miami area, it is just a pleasant breezy day here, so far, which is a break from the normal humid heat of Florida.
Chris Harland, Tampa, Fl, USA
I'm studying in Miami for two years and was stuck in the middle of this hurricane. It got very, very dark at around 6pm and then the torrential rain started along with the 80+ mph wind. Here in Coconut Grove, there are lots of trees down and no power and from reading the paper which somehow still got through, it's the same all over Miami. Roads are blocked by floods and a flyover under construction has collapsed in the north of the city, but apart from that for me at least it's just a case of two days off college.
Peter, Miami, Florida, originally from Hull, UK
Having dodged several large hurricanes since our arrival in Florida two years ago, yesterday we took a direct hit from Katrina. Living on the 17th floor looking out to sea, it was amazing to see nature in all its fury rampaging towards the coast. The screaming of the wind trapped inside high rise buildings and the constant slamming of storm shutters made for an unnerving few hours and it was a relief as the eye passed directly over us giving us an eerie silence for a while. Then the back of the storm hit and it was back to the moaning thrashing concert of sounds accompanied by flailing rainstorms. This morning, Miami looks like a film set for a huge disaster movie, but within a few days, it will be cleaned and cleared, and Floridians will be going about their business, and doubtless the sun will be shining again by tomorrow.
Kate Fagalde, Aventura North, Miami, USA
We had lots of wind but little rain (close to the Broward county line north of Miami Lakes). People to the south had 12 to 20 inches of rain and there's a lot of flooding down there. A flyover under construction came down onto the Dolphin expressway - lots of concrete and rebar everywhere but nobody was hurt. My main message, unless you need to be out, stay inside.
Andrew, Miami, USA
My parents live in Pompano Beach and have been without power since yesterday evening. They were expecting the storm to be mostly rain, and so didn't even put up storm shutters. Then, when it began to blow in earnest and branches broke off their trees, my father had to struggle to put up the shutters in the wind. But they're all right, if sweltering.
Karen, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
My father and family live in New Orleans and tried to stay in the city as long as possible for fear that their homes and businesses would be looted after the storm hit. No one imagined that looting would result from desperation, which is indeed what is said to be happening now. It is important for viewers who aren't familiar with New Orleans to realize that it is a very poor city with a large elderly population. Most people who did not evacuate the city simply don't have enough resources to get out. They don't own cars, can't afford bloated gas prices, and have little savings to fall back on when the waters recede The people left behind in New Orleans will need many resources when the waters recede.
Jane, London, England
I've been reading this site and listening to BBC radio - don't you guys understand the scope of this tragedy? There are over 700,000 refugees in the Southern United States and at least two major cities that are uninhabitable. I live over 600 miles away and hotels here are nearly full of those left homeless!
TM, Virginia, USA
The events in the States are a tragedy and a dramatic example of nature's power. I've heard the situation there described as being America's tsunami. One striking difference, however, is that the people struck by the boxing-day tsunami had no warning of the impending danger. Why did so many people ignore the warnings that were given to evacuate the area, an area that has a history of hurricanes? Why did so many people choose to stay put and then put the lives of rescue workers in peril during attempts to save them when the storm hit?
Paul Blair, Edinburgh, Scotland
The Treasure Bay Casino "pirate ship" is seen almost reduced to its frame by Hurricane Katrina, Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2005 in Biloxi, Miss.(AP Photo/Rogelio Solis)
In vain I have searched internet sites for signs of an international effort to help the 2.9 million people without power, water, or food in the hurricane devastated area of the USA. Apparently when our country suffers it's left to fend for itself. That tells me what to do next time a tsunami hits a third world country!
Susan, Lansing USA
The international community's silence is deafening.
Joe, USA
Virginia Savova, Boston, USA
Here in Miami, trees are down, power is out, food is getting spoiled, and children are out of school, all of us are hot and sweaty in the 35 degrees Celsius temperature.
Sidonie Sawyer, Miami, USA
Stacey Lampp, Houston, Texas
We have family in Mississippi and we are stationed in Naples. I was able to speak with a sister-in-law that chose to leave, they were heading back from Greenville. I have had no news since that conversation. My husbands Mother, father and younger brother stayed through the storm. We have not heard from them. My family, my friends and my church are all there. I was a child when Camille hit and remember the damage from it, there is no comparison, this storm has devastated an area across the gulf coast that is over 100 miles wide, and continues through the state wrecking havoc. Your
Gale Smith, Naples, Italy
My daughter lives with her family in New Orleans. Fortunately they were able to get out. She has just emailed to say that the rumours are that New Orleans will be submerged and lost forever. Alligators and snakes in the flood waters add to the dangers.
Alistair Macindoe , Dumbarton, Scotland
My son Peter was last heard of in the Super bowl in New Orleans 48 hours ago. Am just so frustrated that we're unable to get any news, not sure what to do for the best
Wayne Henry, England
I have an Aunt and Uncle and several cousins that live in New Orleans and Baton Rouge. My cousins in New Orleans are staying with their parents (they didn't take any chances) and it looks as if they may be there for a while. My cousin has no idea what he will find when he goes back home, which could be over a month from now. It seems as if the crisis is just getting worse there.
Bryan Short, Bemidji, MN, USA
I thought Hurricane Ivan and Dennis were horrible, but after seeing the pictures and video feed from New Orleans and Mississippi, nothing compares. Ivan was tame compared to that monster. I have dear friends who stayed in New Orleans and I have not been able to get hold of them. I am so worried, so afraid. God help them all.
Stephanie Reaser, Pace, FL, USA
Helen Wheeldon, Glasgow, Scotland
I used to live near New Orleans. Its devastation is heartbreaking. But I know that the world, especially the Europeans will initiate a huge rebuilding project just like we did for the Tsunami-stricken areas.
Thomas Lohr, Chisinau, Moldova
I've been trying to reach half of my family who are still evacuated from Tangipahoa Parish. I hope they are safe. But all lines are cut off and feel very helpless at this point. All we can do is pray. Although we were warned, none were prepared for the magnitude of this or its aftermath.
Mimee, USA
This is a tragedy; but why build city below sea level and between a lake and a mighty river in an area that suffers hurricanes?
Richard, East Grinstead
Where is the UN ? Why have we not heard from Kofi Annan regarding the UN's response to Katrina?
Raymond, New York
David Schneider, New Orleans, Louisiana
My sister, brother-in-law, and their three children, under four, are New Orleans refugees. In tears she asks, is our home liveable and still standing? Does my husband have a job to return to? Does my boys beautiful 200-year-old pre-school still exist? I want to talk to my New Orleans friends and neighbours but I have no idea where they have gone in the US to evacuate. Our daily lives have disappeared overnight.
Jennifer, Houston, Texas, US
We are affected here by a shortage of gasoline. There is currently no gas at any of the stations in the area and prices went up 30 cents over night. That's the biggest threat to the nation.
Michael, Milwaukee, USA
Ihsan Mahdi, New Orleans, Louisiana
I stayed in New Orleans during the hurricane because I didn't have anywhere else to go. I was in a friend's house during the hurricane and a couple of windows were blown in during the storm. But in the Garden District uptown, we escaped the worst of the winds. After the hurricane we went to check on our houses and all were fine. There was some flooding but it wasn't that bad at that stage. Most of the damage seemed to be confined to downed trees and power lines. The flooding only followed afterwards. I and two friends decided to get out before the flooding got worse. There was also a very unpleasant atmosphere in the city, with all the looting going on. There was an atmosphere of lawlessness, the place was out of control. I was frightened, to be honest. As we were leaving town there was water everywhere on either side of the interstate. We had to drive 80 miles to find a gas station that was working. From there we drove to Austin, Texas. It's strange to have to flee the city you live in, especially after you think you have ridden out the storm. But the situation is obviously very bad there now - there is no sanitation or electricity. Couple that with the fact that it's very hot, there is dirty water and mosquitoes everywhere. I can't get through to anyone on the phone. I work at the Louisiana State University, close to the Superdome, but I don't know if it's flooded, and I don't know where my colleagues or friends are. I think my apartment is okay, but I'm not sure until I go back. Whenever that is, I'm not sure. The authorities will obviously have to try to get rid of all that water first.
Jonathan Hare, New Orleans, Louisiana
My city, New Orleans, has fallen into utter chaos. I am in Baton Rouge now. I have heard sparse, but hopeful reports of my own neighbourhood (Lower Garden District) but I expect that my apartment will be flooded. I live on the second floor but the house was old - if the wind didn't get it, I'm sure the flood will have.I expect that I have lost everything, except for what I carried when I fled to Baton Rouge. I have not heard from my boss, but my work was in a flood-prone area in Jefferson parish and I'm pretty sure it's underwater. I work for a Mardi Gras supply company, and I'm pretty sure that Mardi Gras will be cancelled or at least greatly reduced next year. Either way, I am almost certain that I am out of a job. I love New Orleans and I want to go back, but I don't think I could ever go through this again. I love the culture, the food, the feel of New Orleans, but this is devastating.I can't even begin to think of the future, and whether I will go back, or even if there will be anything to go back to. My life in New Orleans is over for the time being - I have to start over completely.
Windi Sebren, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
We were ready to come to terms with losing our homes, jobs, and possessions due to a natural disaster. Now we are hearing stories from people still in New Orleans of armed gangs looting the homes and businesses that survived the flood waters. Our possessions are not so much the issue. One police officer has already been shot by looters. There are rescue workers risking their lives to save people trapped in their homes, and now these heroes and the survivors are in danger from armed looters. Our city looks like a war zone and the feeling of desperation has given way to anger that our president can send thousands of troops halfway around the world to "secure our country's freedoms" yet the military presence in New Orleans is so limited that we can't even protect our own people in our own country. We have not even heard of any solutions from the White House to secure the city. I can't even imagine what we come home to. A beautiful city has been lost and it is heartbreaking to watch it be dismantled by its own people.
Jessica Marrero, New Orleans, LA USA
The hurricane was bad, but the flooding caused by the storm and the breaking of levees is devastating. Towns have totally disappeared, there is not place for many people to go, many of the residents of the area are very poor and have no way to get out. I hope the rest of the world would realize how devastating this disaster is and would offer help.
Shirley Nester, Colfax, USA
This is a dreadful natural disaster to hit New Orleans and the American civilians. The only sad thing watching from afar is the despicable looting that is taking place whilst all of this is ongoing. Hardly a good example of democracy to provide to the Iraqi nationals who Mr. Bush is so determined to provide with democracy. Shame on the small minority.
Tom, Doha, State of Qatar
My husband was stationed at Pensacola NAS for 4 years and while we went through 3 hurricanes none were that severe. I hope what the balance of the USA and the international community understand is this: While you may know that the hurricane is on its way, you may not be financially able to evacuate. The tens of thousands trapped in New Orleans and outlying areas are, for the most part, the poorest of the poor. Most do not own a vehicle and live pay cheque to pay cheque. Many are already on public assistance. Many are elderly. These people had no choice but to stay. Those of us in the US need to help our countrymen.
Leslie, Denver, USA
The devastation is beyond belief. It makes me wonder how they will rebuild, but I know they will. Someone earlier commenting on the lack of generosity of the US Government when it comes to Aid. Please remember that the American people are the most generous in the world - bar none. They need your help now... please donate via the US red cross.
DaveA, Brit, Columbus, Ohio
My uncle has lived in Metarie and the New Orleans area for more than 20 years and in one night he lost everything. The same situation and worse is Gulf Coast wide in the states of Louisiana and Mississippi. Whole towns are destroyed and families wiped out. In my eyes it is the worst natural disaster to strike the United States ever. Houston is doing our part by sheltering refugees from the storms. This is going to have the same economic impact as the tsunami and also the mass devastation. I hope the world takes notice and makes an effort to help those that are impoverished and desperate due to Hurricane Katrina.
Ruthie, Houston, TX
My dad's only brother and his family are in Pass Christian, MS. The last we heard from them was Monday night and they were able to get cell call out saying they were ok, but they had a lot of damage. Now we don't know anything about them, there is no water, no food, no power, no gas - nothing. My cousins have children, one is just over a year old. Please pray for all those who are in these areas and are affected. The town I live in is 200 miles away, we have many refugees, many of which have nothing to go back home to, no homes, no jobs - nothing.
Kim Draughn, Monroe, LA USA
The evacuees of New Orleans are now making their way to my town of Lafayette, in west Louisiana, their faces telling the stories of a ruined city. We are doing all we can to accommodate them here at the University and in the town's sports centre. In the apartment complex I live in, the manager has insisted that people can stay here.
Ben Rutter, Lafayette, Louisiana
I'm 50 years old and have been through numerous hurricanes in my lifetime but never have I ever seen anything like this. I have several friends in New Orleans that said they would ride out the storm there and I haven't heard a word from them since. Here in Baton Rouge we were spared somewhat but some lives were lost. This is the most devastating storm in recorded history to hit the gulf coast. I'm appalled at the looting that's going on. How could any person take advantage in such times. Keep us in your prayers.
Jeffrey Kelleher, Baton Rouge Louisiana , USA
Lower Plaquemines Parish was the first area of the Gulf Coast to experience hurricane force winds, eventually climaxing there at over 125 miles per hour. It bore the brunt of Katrina, acting as a sacrificial line of defence for points further inland. Had it not been there, New Orleans and Gulfport would have taken even more of the full force of the storm. The communities downriver from New Orleans closest to the Mississippi River Delta have been totally submerged and devastated. Aerials show a continuous expanse of water with an outline of remaining trees, levees and what's left of higher buildings. Towns like Buras, Boothville, Venice and Empire have, in essence, been washed off the map.
Patrick, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
I wanted to thank Texas for being such a good neighbour in this time of tragedy. You have opened your doors and hearts to us. We are so grateful for everything you have done. God bless you!
Kristy, Louisiana
I am a graduate student at Tulane University, New Orleans. I evacuated just before the storm to a place on a ridge just north of New Orleans. It was a farmhouse in the middle of a forest. Half the trees in the woods there are down. A couple of trees fell on the house I was taking shelter in. The last two days we cleared the trees from the road leading to the main road and finally made our way to Florida. There is no news as to when school will reopen. There are apprehensions here that the city of New Orleans will be declared a dead city
Gautam, New Orleans, USA
We live in Birmingham, Alabama and got a lot of wind and some power outages but that's about it. South Alabama and especially South Mississippi are suffering badly. This compares with the tidal wave in South East Asia in terms of devastation. Our hotels here in Birmingham are full of coastal residents that escaped the storm. Now we are getting refugees. Louisiana has it the worst of all. It may take weeks or even months for some areas to be habitable again. Please keep your thoughts and prayers for the South Eastern US.
B. Montgomery, Birmingham, Alabama
My mother and father live in Bogalusa, LA and I have not heard from them since Katrina Struck. What is the damage in that area?
Sira Gavin, Wichita, KS
My sister in law and her family live in Gulfport and Biloxi. I haven't heard anything from them yet and am worried. Her husband is a Deputy Sheriff, so will be out working in the weather helping others. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all, and everyone else affected. God bless.
Sarah Sullivan, Brighton, England
Lack of sanitation, loss of electricity, no access to clean water - this is a public health nightmare come true. We need to send public health officials and the National Guard in ASAP if they have not already been sent. I hope people hang in there, my prayers are with them.
Sana Ansari, Minneapolis, USA
We have several relatives that are older and live in the New Orleans area. One of them was recovering from surgery just before the storm hit. We have been trying desperately to reach them for about a week now and fear that something might have happened to them, as they were unable to evacuate.
Hillary, Texas, USA
My husband is stationed in Vegas. We left our daughter in Bogalusa with my parents. I had spoke to my dad the night before the hurricane hit. He said everybody was fine for the time being. Well now I can't get in touch with them to check on my daughter whom is three. I am worried to death and I keep hearing horror stories. If anybody can help me on knowing the situation in Bogalusa, LA please let me know???
Amanda Craddock, North Las Vegas, USA
A very important person to me had to evacuate her home in Abita Springs a while back and is now safe. However, the aftermath of this is really the issue here. They, and many other families are running out of money for basic needs, and it is disgusting to see how many people are looting these honest families who had very little to begin with. I wish the best for her, as well as every other victim of this tragedy.
Adam, Reading, UK
I would like to know the situation of the Washington Parish, the Bogalusa Area. I have relatives there and I have not heard anything about them or that area. I'm really worried. Thank you
Sheyla Bravo, Monterrey, Mexico
Several family members have been affected - both by the storm and its after-effects. Where is the National Guard?
David, Southern USA
Most of the posts express concern for the city of New Orleans which is indeed a major disaster area; however, most fail to realize that the entirety of St. Bernard Parish (county) is under water. Many of the smaller coastal communities and surrounding suburbs are almost totally destroyed.
Anthony, Lafayette, Louisiana
I can't help but wonder if a lot of people around the world are happy to see this happening to America, and I certainly hope that's not the case. Keep in mind that its only the American poor that will pay the real price with absolutely nothing left, and a President who couldn't care less about these people, except that Louisiana is a red state and Republicans count on their votes. The people of this hurricane need our rescue.
Alex, Portland, OR
The news of what's happening is horrifying. We're organising community donations to the Red Cross in the hope that every bit will help. Speaking of aid, even though we're looking at over a million homeless and massive rebuilding, I am surprised by the outcry about the lack of international aid - the US is the world's single most wealthy nation, and gives the lowest proportion of its GDP in international aid. I assume that the world's only superpower will let the international community know if it isn't able to fund rescue and reconstruction. It ought to be possible - after all, the budget was fully balanced only a few years ago.
Kaz, Briton in NJ, USA
I think New Orleans should be abandoned after the rescue operations. It's old and dilapidated to begin with and now much of it is so hopelessly ruined that it would have to be rebuilt anyway. They should build a "new" New Orleans on higher ground, a well-planned city with some of the look and feel of the old one.
Chrisse, Houston, Texas
I have family members living in Mandeville, Louisiana and I haven't heard from them how badly the area was affected. I am very concerned they have four little ones. I last spoke with them on Sunday evening.
Lilly, Long Beach, California
My sister, brother in law, niece and my nephews family who are based in the Slidell/Picayune area have all evacuated from their homes. At this moment 19:20 on Monday 29th August we don't know where they are or what they will come home to. We are worried and waiting to hear from them again - especially for my brother in laws father who has decided to stay and see the storm out.
Paul Hedges, Luton, Bedfordshire
I have many family members in New Orleans. I spoke to my 83 year old uncle last night he and his grandson were evacuated yesterday and went up to North Louisiana to other family member's houses. I haven't heard from any other families yet I can't get through on the phone because of the storm.
Janice Polito, Streamwood
Donate Now !
The American Red Cross have asked for donation's to help with dealing with this disaster. I don't have much money but every little counts..... On my way to make a donation :)
hewitt.mobi Posted at 8:46 am |
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All this will not be finished in the first hundred days. Nor will it be finished in the first thousand days, nor in the life of this administration, nor even perhaps in our lifetime on this planet. But let us begin. - John F. Kennedy
