Hmmm. . . . .
Did Trump threaten to de-fund FEMA and relief efforts unless his Wall is built?
Yet?
Did Trump threaten to de-fund FEMA and relief efforts unless his Wall is built?
Yet?
4
Best wishes to all Texans in the path of this possibly devastating hurricane, especially those near Corpus Christi. Take care. Despite all the nasty political remarks, you are part of our country and we will be with you.
6
Take heed Texas, waiting in line for water, food, tarps and health care in 90+ heat is on the way.
5 more Hurricanes are forecast for this season.
BTW there is no Global Warming.
5 more Hurricanes are forecast for this season.
BTW there is no Global Warming.
2
Come on...people's lives are at stake, a lot of people and not just in Texas. You are letting the madness of this trump election strip from you pieces of your humanity. You have many, many NYT articles each day in order to vent, legitimately. This is not one of them.
6
#1 clue for Trump and Texas Governor...leave the looters alone. Nothing they can steal is worth a life and the political uproar. Looting is just the human increment to hurricane damage. Declare that looting losses are just another part of hurricane insurance if you must.
Government should focus on rescue not law enforcement. natural disasters should be considered law free zones. Do not fire unless fired upon and actually wounded. General policy should be to avoid violence and leave neighborhood if gunfire has not yet produced wounds.
Government should focus on rescue not law enforcement. natural disasters should be considered law free zones. Do not fire unless fired upon and actually wounded. General policy should be to avoid violence and leave neighborhood if gunfire has not yet produced wounds.
1
There will be a lot of disruption in the oil industry. So, New York get ready to pay us in the energy corridor a lot more $.
I have the privilege of meeting and working with Texans every day here in Southern California; sincere, considerate and empathetic folks. Have we really reached the point where, on the eve of what promises to be a devastating natural disaster, our first instinct is to rut around in a trough of schadenfreude? People, put yourself in the place of others; for just a moment. If we see "a" problem as "our" problem we will all be better equipped to respond to "the" problem? Just a thought, America.
9
Hurricane season is upon us once again, and how sad that Texas' coast looks like it will be hit by one of the early storms this year. No one can be surprised" hurricanes happen. They can try to be ready. Even absent a hurricane, Houston has recently endured torrential rains and flooding (just last year). It's a fair bet that those who experienced flooding from the heavy rains might well see it again with this storm, and they know what to do.
The biggest danger, it seems to me, is that people might underestimate the potential danger that flooding presents. As little as six (6) inches of moving water can sweep a 200 pound adult off his/her feet and carry him/her away. Cars can be moved by as little as a foot of water. It is extremely dangerous to drive into water unless you know it is only a very shallow, limited-size puddle.
Best wishes to all in the path of this storm. I hope this loses strength and proves to be a bust, but stay safe and plan for the worst.
The biggest danger, it seems to me, is that people might underestimate the potential danger that flooding presents. As little as six (6) inches of moving water can sweep a 200 pound adult off his/her feet and carry him/her away. Cars can be moved by as little as a foot of water. It is extremely dangerous to drive into water unless you know it is only a very shallow, limited-size puddle.
Best wishes to all in the path of this storm. I hope this loses strength and proves to be a bust, but stay safe and plan for the worst.
3
Prejudice is ugly wherever it rears its head.
All Texans are not alike. There are Republicans, Democrats, even Greens, and of course plenty of Libertarians.
Some of you who commented below, casting all Texans in the same mold, this is prejudice pure and simple, "pre-judging" people based on their membership in a group rather than on their individual characteristics.
If you are being prejudiced against Texans you and you voted for Clinton in the last election you are doing a disservice to the Democratic Party.
All Texans are not alike. There are Republicans, Democrats, even Greens, and of course plenty of Libertarians.
Some of you who commented below, casting all Texans in the same mold, this is prejudice pure and simple, "pre-judging" people based on their membership in a group rather than on their individual characteristics.
If you are being prejudiced against Texans you and you voted for Clinton in the last election you are doing a disservice to the Democratic Party.
What does voting for Clinton have to do with this?
3
Human beings will die because of this hurricane. Yet, some want to politicize this unfolding disaster.
Really demonstrates how far we've fallen as a country.
Really demonstrates how far we've fallen as a country.
2
When Federal agencies that are to help people on the ground in threatened areas are underfunded long before a disaster takes place, it is political. When the disaster arrives it is only made worse by the actions that were previously taken. The political acts did not come with the storm, but preceded it. Now that we have fallen, as you say, what do we do about it? If you are of this Earth, you are not a Visitor, you have as much obligation to get off your perch as anyone else.
3
Hit Hard Harvey
You are guided by the hand of the deity.
You are guided by the hand of the deity.
What? and why would you wish that on fellow citizens and residents of the US?
4
Wishing you all the best of luck in Texas, my fellow Americans. We must not let anything nor anyone divide us to the point we feel we're not in this together, especially because of politics, most especially when in times of need. I'll be donating! Love, from NY.
5
"Mr. Trump has proposed cutting a number of programs and grants at the federal agency that many cities and states say would leave them unable to deal with disasters."
Not to worry. Trump knows better than his generals. He'll also know better then
his meterologists.
Not to worry. Trump knows better than his generals. He'll also know better then
his meterologists.
4
Its the politically forced adaptation of immature Global Warming models over most accurate current weather models. EU still runs separate models. Agreement is getting better but its not there yet.
But due to politics Obama era decision was that convergence of model capabilities would proceed faster if weather service was forced to focus primarily on global warming models over older more accurate current weather models. Save money to over continued development of both.
In theory global warming models should be far better at predicting rapidly developing hurricanes because hurricanes are driven by warm water which is supposedly increasingly warm due to global warm. Robin Cook novel pointed out early models suggest that at ocean temperatures around 98F there might be enough energy to make hurricanes go supersonic, never ending, continent crossing, soil stripping storms. Just 12F to go, but I think that global warming prediction has been revised.
But due to politics Obama era decision was that convergence of model capabilities would proceed faster if weather service was forced to focus primarily on global warming models over older more accurate current weather models. Save money to over continued development of both.
In theory global warming models should be far better at predicting rapidly developing hurricanes because hurricanes are driven by warm water which is supposedly increasingly warm due to global warm. Robin Cook novel pointed out early models suggest that at ocean temperatures around 98F there might be enough energy to make hurricanes go supersonic, never ending, continent crossing, soil stripping storms. Just 12F to go, but I think that global warming prediction has been revised.
Good luck Texans...please get out of harm's way. We are sending positive thoughts and best wishes from Minnesota.
4
Ted Cruz voted no on Hurricane Sandy Relief. I hope blue senators do the same.
2
Newsflash: no one likes Ted Cruz. Not even here.
2
Batten down the hatches Texans on the path of what looks like a horrendous storm. I am a New Yorker but lived in Houston and Austin in the 80's and I know that Houston floats on bayou soil and it floods easily. The dislike for Trump is so intense across the country and his incompetence so clear that I fear for you in the next coming days. Hopefully, the federal bureaucracy that precedes him and is in charge of disaster relief will rise up to the task.
When federal dollars start pouring in to relieve, hopefully, minimum misery, y'all good people remind your red confederates that the federal government is a good idea after all. And, yes, tell 'me that science is not religion in that it doesn't have all the answers, just the provable ones.
When federal dollars start pouring in to relieve, hopefully, minimum misery, y'all good people remind your red confederates that the federal government is a good idea after all. And, yes, tell 'me that science is not religion in that it doesn't have all the answers, just the provable ones.
1
I'm from Miami and visit Houston frequently for business. A fantastic town with even better people. Terrible to think of what Lies ahead. Good thoughts and vibes headed to you from Florida!
Texans tough!
Texans tough!
3
I'm from California... and I fear for anyone who may be vulnerable in these storms. Please be safe and be there for each other, everyone. That's all we really have. All we really have is love.
2
“The western Gulf is experiencing some of the highest rates of relative levels of sea-level rise in the country,” said NOAA oceanographer William Sweet, lead author of the study. “The ocean is not rising like water would in a bathtub.”
Sea-level rise is making storm surges larger, said John Nielsen-Gammon, Texas state climatologist at Texas A&M University in College Station.
“Compared to a storm that would have hit, say, 30 years ago, the additional storm surge we are talking about is on the order of … about 7 inches,” Nielsen-Gammon said….
…Said Ojeda: “If a 200 mph hurricane hits this island (Galveston), there is not going to be (anything) left. Go solar get of fossil fools now
Sea-level rise is making storm surges larger, said John Nielsen-Gammon, Texas state climatologist at Texas A&M University in College Station.
“Compared to a storm that would have hit, say, 30 years ago, the additional storm surge we are talking about is on the order of … about 7 inches,” Nielsen-Gammon said….
…Said Ojeda: “If a 200 mph hurricane hits this island (Galveston), there is not going to be (anything) left. Go solar get of fossil fools now
So sad that people are going to lose their homes, businesses and in some cases their lives in this disaster. Blessings to all the people in the path of this hurricane, keep safe, don't stay if it means saving your life, I am praying for you and your families.
1
One of the reasons Katrina was such a huge problem was that a great many people, lacking cars, had no way to evacuate. Has this been considered with Harve?
A thing that always gets lost in talk of politics and religion is great majority of people deep down all want the same basic things, health, happiness, safety, our kids to be safe and have a good school to go to (and, especially these days affordable health care as they age, or their children/parents/them get sick) - and nobody wants to suffer injury or property damage inflicted by a natural disaster. That's true of climate deniers as well as urban intelligensia.
We are all at base much more a like than we are different. So human to human, my NYer self wishes all in Harvey's path staying safe and insurance other than FEMA that will cover any property damage.
And I am genuinely pleased so many Texans commented here about the diversity of the people who live in Texas. But I also want you all to know, yes, I do hold all Texans responsible for the politicians they elect and empower.
We are all at base much more a like than we are different. So human to human, my NYer self wishes all in Harvey's path staying safe and insurance other than FEMA that will cover any property damage.
And I am genuinely pleased so many Texans commented here about the diversity of the people who live in Texas. But I also want you all to know, yes, I do hold all Texans responsible for the politicians they elect and empower.
4
Having lived through a few hurricanes and typhoons I can only offer up this advice. If one is heading towards you get out of its way. Good luck coastal Texas; at least in todays world we have good science alerting to it coming well before it hits. I suppose that's a saving grace?
John~
American Net'Zen
John~
American Net'Zen
1
Please quit with the political comments on this storm regardless of your political party we are Americans first and parties second. We all come together regardless of our political belief and help each other to rebuild that is what makes America great.
3
Perhaps this is a manifestation of climate change?
Of course, I am not an expert.
You would have to ask the executives at Exxon and Koch to know how this really works.
Of course, I am not an expert.
You would have to ask the executives at Exxon and Koch to know how this really works.
3
My sincere best to Texas. This is a worry. Trump merely tweeted to storm victims "plan ahead." This reminds me of the beginning of the year, when I was down south for my 4 month respite:
In January 2017, horrendous tornadoes killed many + destroyed entire neighborhoods throughout several southern states. It was devastating.
But FEMA under Trump + GOP failed to provide aid to states in a timely manner. Officials literally begged for assistance and some boots on the ground. The governor of Mississippi sent a letter that apparently went unread. A Georgia official similarly had difficulty having his plea heard.
FEMA was either idle, not called nor authorized--or perhaps adversely affected by Trump's ridiculously abrupt anti-government hiring freeze for federal job contracting/federal workers when he took office. He didn't seem to notice. Two days went by without anything at all. And people died.
It should be noted both Obama and Clinton had superior FEMA response to disasters, and Republican George W. Bush did not.
Are we seeing a pattern here? Can someone wake up Trump?
In January 2017, horrendous tornadoes killed many + destroyed entire neighborhoods throughout several southern states. It was devastating.
But FEMA under Trump + GOP failed to provide aid to states in a timely manner. Officials literally begged for assistance and some boots on the ground. The governor of Mississippi sent a letter that apparently went unread. A Georgia official similarly had difficulty having his plea heard.
FEMA was either idle, not called nor authorized--or perhaps adversely affected by Trump's ridiculously abrupt anti-government hiring freeze for federal job contracting/federal workers when he took office. He didn't seem to notice. Two days went by without anything at all. And people died.
It should be noted both Obama and Clinton had superior FEMA response to disasters, and Republican George W. Bush did not.
Are we seeing a pattern here? Can someone wake up Trump?
1
FEMA has tried to become an agency with all permanent employees instead of temporary employees during disasters--the increase in personnel costs all year may explain in part the lack of funding now--before the next budget cycle.
Additionally FEMA is a revolving door for problem employees--I cannot tell you how many women complained about certain male supervisors who were just transferred to another disaster instead of being fired for sexual harassment, and we taxpayers paid for those EEOC and court settlements. Under Janet Napolitano, FEMA became gestapo like--fired if you shared any problems at the workplace with anyone. Let's not be transparent--let's keep the problems and improper spending under wraps. Does the US public know that it paid millions to replace New Orleans' very old water system--not damaged by Katrina but another way of buying votes whether for Dems or Reps.
Additionally FEMA is a revolving door for problem employees--I cannot tell you how many women complained about certain male supervisors who were just transferred to another disaster instead of being fired for sexual harassment, and we taxpayers paid for those EEOC and court settlements. Under Janet Napolitano, FEMA became gestapo like--fired if you shared any problems at the workplace with anyone. Let's not be transparent--let's keep the problems and improper spending under wraps. Does the US public know that it paid millions to replace New Orleans' very old water system--not damaged by Katrina but another way of buying votes whether for Dems or Reps.
1
One of these days we will have to decide what is really important. When Mt. St Helen blew its top off the only thing that really saved lives was that Gov. Dixy Lee Ray, a former Atomic Energy Commissioner listened to her staff and made every one evacuate the day before. She was not the best governor WA ever had but that time she made a huge difference. I just wonder why the coastal areas of Texas have not been evacuated. Hurricanes can not be stopped you must get out of the way. We have been thru 3 small ones when we lived in Tallahassee, Fl. They were a little scary but nothing serious happened, we prepared as best we could and waited them out. I suspect that may not be sufficient in Texas this time. Yes, some have noted the broad range of political opinion there but I do remember Obama did well enough there in 2008 but not in 2012. I believe we get what we deserve in dealing w Moma Nature. I also remember some friendly help from a police officer when I got turned around in Houston on my way to Florida the first trip.
Is Trump planning to make any statement on this? Or is he not yet aware that a hurricane is approaching a heavily populated, large portion of Texas?
And since they're so righteous down there in red state Texas, and the most terrifying thing they might ever hear is "I'm from the government and I'm here to help," let's be sure and send off a carton or two of bootstraps so they can pull themselves up out of the destruction, and don't forget to deny all requests for "federal" aid.
1
I am a Democrat from Connecticut. Can we for a moment put our political views aside to wish well our fellow countrymen and countrywomen in harms way. Hatred and prejudice, whether for race or a part of the country is what is tearing at the fabric of our country. We don't wish hardship upon anyone. Stay safe brothers and sisters in Texas and Louisiana.
6
yes, stay safe. . . so when its over you can go back to hating us in the United Blue States of America.
We are with you. Be as safe and careful as you can be. Help each other and we will try to help you and send good vibes and other assistance from afar. This is not a time for emphasizing contrary positions or views, but for seeing how shared our vulnerabilities, strengths, and extreme circumstances are today. Likely we will have even more need to come together tomorrow and later tomorrows.
1
If I lived on the Texas or Louisiana coast, I'd likely be on the road out.
FEMA under Trump isn't something I'd care to be on the receiving end of.
The best of luck to you all, and may you get through this safely.
FEMA under Trump isn't something I'd care to be on the receiving end of.
The best of luck to you all, and may you get through this safely.
2
The comments are interesting! I feel sympathy for my fellow Americans in the path of this storm and pray that they and their family members are safe. Yet, if red states like Texas would stop voting Republican, the party who overtly denies climate change, the US could join the rest of the world and take steps to mitigate natural disasters. Elections have consequences!
2
Any state government that does not support efforts to combat climate change does not deserve any federal disaster relief.
Is that how it works? Bad decisions by leaders from gerrymandered districts are sins that the population must atone for?
3
The potential for the catastrophic loss of life is an apolitical concern. For those whose comments seem to suggest otherwise, let me kindly suggest that your opinions on Texas politics are ill-informed.
Texas is a geographically vast state with a very diverse demographic. Reviewing recent federal election returns, you'll find that the major metropolitan areas all voted Democratic -- deep blue islands surrounded by a large ocean of red, much like the rest of the US. If you visit Houston, you'll read street signs in Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, and Vietnamese. In Austin, you find liberal activists engaged in social justice, etc. San Antonio and Dallas are equally rich in their diversity.
The state remains red because there's a large population of disenfranchised hispanic voters, and because the urban centers have been gerrymandered. Congressional district maps show that Austin has been cut up into 5 districts that stretch like spokes on a wheel out into the vast red empty spaces. I live in a staunchly liberal neighborhood adjacent to the University of Texas campus, and yet my congressional representative is a Republican. Go figure.
But none of this really matters. What really matters politically is whether our elected officials are sufficiently competent to evacuate millions of people in the path of this storm and to deal with the aftermath. And as with Katrina, the people who are most in need of our support and collective sympathy are the most vulnerable among us.
Texas is a geographically vast state with a very diverse demographic. Reviewing recent federal election returns, you'll find that the major metropolitan areas all voted Democratic -- deep blue islands surrounded by a large ocean of red, much like the rest of the US. If you visit Houston, you'll read street signs in Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, and Vietnamese. In Austin, you find liberal activists engaged in social justice, etc. San Antonio and Dallas are equally rich in their diversity.
The state remains red because there's a large population of disenfranchised hispanic voters, and because the urban centers have been gerrymandered. Congressional district maps show that Austin has been cut up into 5 districts that stretch like spokes on a wheel out into the vast red empty spaces. I live in a staunchly liberal neighborhood adjacent to the University of Texas campus, and yet my congressional representative is a Republican. Go figure.
But none of this really matters. What really matters politically is whether our elected officials are sufficiently competent to evacuate millions of people in the path of this storm and to deal with the aftermath. And as with Katrina, the people who are most in need of our support and collective sympathy are the most vulnerable among us.
4
Somehow a story about a hurricane heading towards Texas is filled with political comments? We are truly a divided country. Trump is not the cause, he is merely a symptom.
1
An other Katrina / Bush era will repeat.
So by the same logic that allows a man to argue he shouldn't have to pay for a woman's birth control since he can't get pregnant, I say we in non-hurricane areas shouldn't have to pay for hurricane damage.
2
Stay safe, everyone on the Gulf. And if you have any new neighbors who moved down since the last big storms hit, remind them that when it's time to evacuate, they should evacuate.
9
It must be a sign of the times that a pending natural disaster gets politicized. Seems like anything now is subject to attacking and stereotyping of the right or the left. Is this a "Trump-effect?" Perhaps it's the overuse of social media which give everyone mouthpieces for spewing out whatever is on their minds with no forethought. Obviously, much criticism levied against local and federal governments in preparing for, and responding to, Hurricane Katrina was deserved. Hopefully, lessons learned from that experience will guide decisions regarding Harvey, which is clearly barrelling right toward the Texas gulf coast. Having lived in Houston in the early 80s (as someone from Michigan), I learned what it was like to be in the midst of a hurricane - Alicia. The eye went right through downtown, where glass from many large buildings was scattered throughout. Though it was a mid-level hurricane, it was amazing to see how metal poles, holding up signs, were literally bent in half. Not to mention major flooding in the eastern part of the city. I enjoyed the four years I spent there, except for the relentless summer heat and humidity from May to October (could sweat just from stepping outside, LOL). Of course, we have winter to deal with here, so I guess it depends on what you're used to!
11
I'm a native Houstonian, lived on the Florida Atlantic coast. I have
grown up with hurricanes, it's in my genes. What's your point.? You have lived among us, now you're happy to be gone. As always, I'll be taking care of my loved ones and friends. This is where we live. With the storms, the heat, and our passionate weather--there is a beauty living that we won't find anywhere else.
grown up with hurricanes, it's in my genes. What's your point.? You have lived among us, now you're happy to be gone. As always, I'll be taking care of my loved ones and friends. This is where we live. With the storms, the heat, and our passionate weather--there is a beauty living that we won't find anywhere else.
1
Spewing out is a sign of stress being relieved.
I'm with the Texans! You haters are Sad. Sad.
10
All shore bourne folk no matter whether it's North Atlantic or Gulf Stream know the fury of wind and waves unleashed along our coastlines. Zorah Neal Hurston described it best in her novel, Their Eyes Were Watching God. May He be watching the Gulf Coast over the next week to keep you all safe. Politics are for another day. Human life is what is precious.
11
Such hateful comments! I'm a native Texan and a lifelong Democrat who voted for Hillary Clinton. Not everyone in Texas is a Trump supporter. Even so, to wish that harm from a natural disaster befalls another person is outrageous. Those of you who have expressed such should be ashamed of yourselves.
25
So, OK. In my criticism I said "… His buddies… "Obviously you're not one of his buddies so you were not The object of my criticism. Hey stay safe down there and good luck… How about those words of encouragement and glad handing plus some cliché words of encouragement?!
1
It no longer suffices to dismiss weather events like this to random chance. I'm sure that SE Texans (and I am very sympathetic to what they are confronting) expect and deserve the maximum assistance from FEMA and their state government.
I hope Hurricane Harvey is less severe than the forecasts are predicting.
I hope Hurricane Harvey is less severe than the forecasts are predicting.
5
Take care of yourselves, help each other, rely on each other. Comfort each other. Be smart, be safe. Natural disasters don't harm just certain people , it doesn't discriminate. Division is what is hurting us right now. None of that matters now. That's how we show we can be one. God bless and keep you safe.
9
So Texas deserves the storm because we have an incompetent governor and many people voted for Trump? Really? Does no one recall that Houston took in the victims from Katrina when other States wouldn't? Get off your high horses and stop politicizing a hurricane, for crying out loud.
12
OKC will do the same for you.
Lets remember that Texas generously took in over a 100,000 homeless people from Katrina and took care them for months. And some now for over 12 years as they didn't return. But all some people type is about Trump and comments against Texas. Thats rather pathetic.
9
May all of God's children in Texas and the Gulf region, of all stripes, persuasions and politics be safe.
8
I hope everyone keeps themselves as safe as possible!!!! I'm a progressive, and I don't wish harm on anybody.
13
Be safe, all who are in the path of the hurricane! Be prepared and take care of one another. Let me know if you need help.
3
I'm wishing all the best for everyone along the Texas Gulf Coast. I lost contact with them some years ago, but I have cousins who I believe still live in the area. But, during recovery after the storm, "the big we" all will need to consider how best to support the area in preparing for higher sea levels and future hurricanes.
5
Be safe everyone in Louisiana and Texas. Evacuate if you are so ordered, otherwise batten down the hatches.
4
I am not American but have lived extensively in the US, and I am astonished at some of the comments here. Hatred towards Texas and Texans just indicate how small-minded and skewed these Americans are. One might dislike Trump and/or Texas politics and have some stereotyped views of Texans but there is a possible natural disaster on the doorstep of your countrymen, and to be so smugly gleeful or unconcerned says a lot about you. Not every tiny thing that happens in that still great country of yours is reduceable to a Trump analysis. Perhaps the faster you get this, the faster his perceived influence will weaken. Regardless, hope Harvey will not be as bad as predicted. The potential cost of lives and money is something America does not need. And personally, having been through two floods that wiped out 80% of everything I had, I would not wish it on any American.
26
Before you label all Texans, think hard. Not everyone gets to choose their life. I know some good people down there. Not all of them voted for Trump, and not all the ones who did knew what they were voting for. Unfortunately, Fox is sole source of news for a lot of people in the region.
I'm a firm advocate of science and have spent years trying to clarify what is going on with global warming/climate change, so don't think I'm in favor of fake skepticism. But we don't need to blame victims here now or at any time.
I'm a firm advocate of science and have spent years trying to clarify what is going on with global warming/climate change, so don't think I'm in favor of fake skepticism. But we don't need to blame victims here now or at any time.
49
This is a good summary of the Texas political situation:
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2017/07/10/americas-future-is-texas
At Wunderground, there is some talk of a possible Category 4 (still probably "only" Cat 3), and people are comparing it to Ike. Not exactly good news.
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2017/07/10/americas-future-is-texas
At Wunderground, there is some talk of a possible Category 4 (still probably "only" Cat 3), and people are comparing it to Ike. Not exactly good news.
6
I personally invite any Texan to move to Colorado (as thousands continue to do) if you share the same live and let live attitude as does Susan Anderson. Colorado does not need any folks full of hate taking over the politics and economics (usually oil money and it is big, as the stereotype implies) as has occurred over time.
1
To the haters:
Texans, while we don't pay state income tax, pay the same federal income tax as the rest of the United States. The money I threw down for FEMA paid for relief from Katrina and tornadoes in other states. When our governors block our access to federal funds, it affects Texas, not those other states. I think we hold the record for the most uninsured, thanks to such policies.
Confederate flags? There are a few, but we have far more Texas flags and far more Texas pride than southern pride. We even have tortilla chips shaped like Texas.
But I really have to say, shame on the lot of you. Here's something you should know about Texas: we're a "red state" because we've been gerrymandered to hell, we incarcerate far too many of our residents, and we have ridiculous barriers to voting. Drop the keyboard activism, get down here, and help us fix this state so more democrat, low-income, and minorities can vote. Then you'd have a big "blue state" on your side.
Texans, while we don't pay state income tax, pay the same federal income tax as the rest of the United States. The money I threw down for FEMA paid for relief from Katrina and tornadoes in other states. When our governors block our access to federal funds, it affects Texas, not those other states. I think we hold the record for the most uninsured, thanks to such policies.
Confederate flags? There are a few, but we have far more Texas flags and far more Texas pride than southern pride. We even have tortilla chips shaped like Texas.
But I really have to say, shame on the lot of you. Here's something you should know about Texas: we're a "red state" because we've been gerrymandered to hell, we incarcerate far too many of our residents, and we have ridiculous barriers to voting. Drop the keyboard activism, get down here, and help us fix this state so more democrat, low-income, and minorities can vote. Then you'd have a big "blue state" on your side.
184
I am a Texan both by ancestry on my mother's side and I spent more time in Texas and southern Oklahoma growing up than G.W. Bush, who identified as a Texan, even though as a teenager he was off to those east coast schools. In any case, Romy G., good points. Once long ago on my first trip to Europe, I met up with another young man, a European, who loved Texas and the idea of Texas. I mentioned some problems I had with the state and he said, "Texas is too important to be left to the Texans." Gulp.
The fact that ordinary citizens, working class and people who sell their labor to earn paychecks, follow the lead of the oil men and other elites in Texas is something I will never fully understand. When oil was about the only big business, people voted for what the oil men wanted because daddy's job was tied directly to oil or related to oil income. Habits die hard. No one cared if thousands died of cancer (which ran like a plague through my parents and grandparents generations) as long as daddy had a job.
I love Texas in all its contradictions and colliding visions. Trust me, if those who live there can mount a strong, abiding opposition to the attempt to defeat democracy, you will get much help, strong support from across the nation.
Most people who enjoy putting Texas down don't know the state or its people, even though criticism is often warranted. Bob Dylan said there are more independent thinking people in Texas than anywhere, so why don't they make some needed revolution?
The fact that ordinary citizens, working class and people who sell their labor to earn paychecks, follow the lead of the oil men and other elites in Texas is something I will never fully understand. When oil was about the only big business, people voted for what the oil men wanted because daddy's job was tied directly to oil or related to oil income. Habits die hard. No one cared if thousands died of cancer (which ran like a plague through my parents and grandparents generations) as long as daddy had a job.
I love Texas in all its contradictions and colliding visions. Trust me, if those who live there can mount a strong, abiding opposition to the attempt to defeat democracy, you will get much help, strong support from across the nation.
Most people who enjoy putting Texas down don't know the state or its people, even though criticism is often warranted. Bob Dylan said there are more independent thinking people in Texas than anywhere, so why don't they make some needed revolution?
8
I am gratified this is at the top of the most liked posts but why is this not the most liked post and not a NYT Picks is beyond me.
It is not your fellow Americans' fault they live in a state where the political system is rigged. Besides, even if there were Nazis and KKK in Texas, compassion compels to reach out first and debate later. Remember, extremists - not that all Texans are extremists, not even close - are people. They may not treat you like people, is it okay to do a tit-for-tat? If you do, that make you what?
To be fair, some of the nasty comments were really aiming at Trump and the Tea Party gang. A sarcastic payback to people who refused to make for Sandy when it hit NJ a few years ago. But hitting innocent bystanders is not a right way to live by
It is not your fellow Americans' fault they live in a state where the political system is rigged. Besides, even if there were Nazis and KKK in Texas, compassion compels to reach out first and debate later. Remember, extremists - not that all Texans are extremists, not even close - are people. They may not treat you like people, is it okay to do a tit-for-tat? If you do, that make you what?
To be fair, some of the nasty comments were really aiming at Trump and the Tea Party gang. A sarcastic payback to people who refused to make for Sandy when it hit NJ a few years ago. But hitting innocent bystanders is not a right way to live by
3
I logged in Romy just so I could shout "AMEN". I wager many many red state voters agree, wholeheartedly, with your point and challenge. It is frustrating to be a blue dot in a red state!
1
Texas is a very big state and is hardly homogeneous. The Rio Grande Valley (which is battening down for the storm) votes heavily democratic. But none of this should be the point. We pull together in times of danger. We don't yell politics and say we don't care about you.
53
But that's what they say to us.
Good luck to the people in this storm's path. I hope that you get through it OK.
I know that many of you have very different ideas of what makes a good society but I hope that you would wish me the same. Help your neighbors and help those who are less fortunate than you. That is all you can do. Property is nothing.
I know that many of you have very different ideas of what makes a good society but I hope that you would wish me the same. Help your neighbors and help those who are less fortunate than you. That is all you can do. Property is nothing.
83
Thank you
1
So glad we have President Trump in office to keep everyone comforted, safe, and sane in times of natural disaster. I'm sure he's got a guy in his company like Michael Brown who knows exactly how to handle this.
14
Heck of a job, Brownie. I just wanted to get that in. Get out NOW folks, Trumps in charge. Bigly.
22
#PlanAhead? Might the Trump consider planning ahead for what unlimited dumping of CO2 into the atmosphere might lead to?
Meanwhile, I hope FEMA is ready with signs reading "We're FEMA. We're From the Government and We're Here to Help You".
Meanwhile, I hope FEMA is ready with signs reading "We're FEMA. We're From the Government and We're Here to Help You".
8
An entire story about a potential category 3 hurricane that mention nothing about potential wind damage and spawned tornadoes. Really? The Times gives the impression in this poorly drafted article that lots of rain is the only thing to worry about. Are the editors all on vacation?
11
Well, they mention "80 m.p.h. winds", "path of hurricane conditions" "expected to hit Corpus Christi early on Saturday as a Category 3 hurricane", "winds over 74 miles an hour", "severe flooding, storm surge and damaging winds".
So they didn't say tornados. But I think people realize from the hints above that were in the article that it will be dangerously windy - along with the threat of exceptional rainfall.
The expected rainfall and slow expected travel is what already has the writers at the Houston Chronicle worrying - about rainfall as heavy and deadly as Tropical Storm Allison in 2001.
http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/As-Harvey-nears-...
So they didn't say tornados. But I think people realize from the hints above that were in the article that it will be dangerously windy - along with the threat of exceptional rainfall.
The expected rainfall and slow expected travel is what already has the writers at the Houston Chronicle worrying - about rainfall as heavy and deadly as Tropical Storm Allison in 2001.
http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/As-Harvey-nears-...
3
Flash floods are what forecasters are concerned about with 20 inches of rain and high storm surges.
1
It is disheartening to hear these comments. They make it sound as if Texas alone bears responsibility for Trump and all that came with him. We seem to forget that Trump is not from Texas, but from New York; that anti-Semite Chris Cantwell is also from New York; that white nationalist Richard Spencer is from Boston; and that had just the two industrial northern states of Ohio and Pennsylvania--not generally considered Southern states and not even remotely bordering Texas--been on the Democratic side of the 2016 election, Trump would not be sitting in the White House today. In any event, the topic is a tropical storm with expected devastating effect. We saw what Hurricane Sandy did in New York and New Jersey and hope that Texas will not have to experience anything like it.
71
Actually Ohio, especially the southern part is as bad as any southern state.
Trump's in charge, what could possibly go wrong?
Reminds me of the final scene in the movie 'Animal House' when the streets of Faber were in chaos thanks to the protagonists from Delta House. "All's well, remain calm!"
Reminds me of the final scene in the movie 'Animal House' when the streets of Faber were in chaos thanks to the protagonists from Delta House. "All's well, remain calm!"
5
Trump should send Michael Brown back as the Director of FEMA.
He did a heckuva job with Katrina.
Incompetence and recklessness will teach Texan-- like Louisianans--to never rely on the Federal Government in disasters, emergencies, food, housing, or personal safety.
The answer in a catastrophe for Texans is guns and self reliance. Bang bang.
He did a heckuva job with Katrina.
Incompetence and recklessness will teach Texan-- like Louisianans--to never rely on the Federal Government in disasters, emergencies, food, housing, or personal safety.
The answer in a catastrophe for Texans is guns and self reliance. Bang bang.
2
Send the FEMA bill to Exxon.
19
This should be front page news. Harvey could devastate coastal Texas and bring further flooding to Louisiana. The amount of moisture in this storm is literally off the charts.
21
They are talking "t" for trillions of gallons of water.
1
It is regrettable to see so many commentators bashing the state of Texas and having little or no empathy for those in the path of Hurricane Harvey.
Why do you take that stance? I can only presume that you are upset with some of our politicians and the way some people in this state vote.
Do you think all of the people living here think alike, vote alike, etc.? From my vantage point that is exactly the kind of simplistic thinking, labeling, and divisive dialogue that we hear all too frequently from President Trump and his enablers.
More importantly, what difference should it make? When Americans are challenged by natural disasters - no matter where occur - we don't look at state of origin. We pull together to help our fellow citizens. We contribute money, telephone and electrical repair crews, and whatever it takes to help individuals and families get back on their feet and put their lives back together.
Why do you take that stance? I can only presume that you are upset with some of our politicians and the way some people in this state vote.
Do you think all of the people living here think alike, vote alike, etc.? From my vantage point that is exactly the kind of simplistic thinking, labeling, and divisive dialogue that we hear all too frequently from President Trump and his enablers.
More importantly, what difference should it make? When Americans are challenged by natural disasters - no matter where occur - we don't look at state of origin. We pull together to help our fellow citizens. We contribute money, telephone and electrical repair crews, and whatever it takes to help individuals and families get back on their feet and put their lives back together.
47
We are very fortunate to have such talented and devoted people in NOAA. Flying a plane into a hurricane? How many of us would be willing to do that to gather information to try to save lives and minimize property losses?
It is cheap fun to ridicule the government. Maybe we should ask Grover Norquist if he or his loved ones would please do this for us, since he feels so strongly that the government is useless.
Oh, and don't bother with the "private sector could do it better/cheaper" nonsense. They can't and won't because there is no business model that could sustain this. Kind of like having the fire department roll up to a burning house and negotiate the cost of putting out the fire.
It is cheap fun to ridicule the government. Maybe we should ask Grover Norquist if he or his loved ones would please do this for us, since he feels so strongly that the government is useless.
Oh, and don't bother with the "private sector could do it better/cheaper" nonsense. They can't and won't because there is no business model that could sustain this. Kind of like having the fire department roll up to a burning house and negotiate the cost of putting out the fire.
37
Les, superb commentary... says so much about our "government is the problem" problem!
5
Let he who is without sin cast the first stone...must be a lot of perfect northerners out there...
The venom directed toward Texans and southerners in many of these comments is a truly sad reflection of the state of our country. Is it really that much different that the white supremacists...northern supremacists...southern supremists...all very sad.
The venom directed toward Texans and southerners in many of these comments is a truly sad reflection of the state of our country. Is it really that much different that the white supremacists...northern supremacists...southern supremists...all very sad.
34
Too many have apparently forgotten Hurricane Sandy.
1
Apparently our President has Texans in his mind and prayers in his tweeting what amounts to a campaign ad about Harvey as all of you prepare for the natural disaster heading your way. That's what happens when you help elect a man who only thinks about himself. Our newly appointed head of FEMA doesn't believe in using tax dollars for "risk-preparedness", but he has sent you bottled water and blankets, though it is likely not as much as will be needed. A fair number of the comments here seem to be about Karma, which may or may not be the kinder, gentler cousin of *fake news* or are aimed at the hypocrisy of the GOP and their attitude toward disaster relief funding. I understand where they are coming from, but it doesn't seem what is most needed now. If Christie can find it in himself to hug President Obama in the aftermath of Sandy, I suspect Abbott won't be too proud to accept as much financial relief help as he can get for Texas. Most importantly, please get to a place where you will be safe and out of this monster's way.
7
Just a reminder here hurricane Sandy took tens of billions of your money in a blue state, I am not sure I heard your voices then. Don't let Trump win!
5
It's appalling how many folks are commenting with hate for Texans whom they've never met. This is the state of our society.
32
How is it that the first comments are political, about FEMA and fake news? Let's scrap that for a moment. I lived in Texas, inland, and met marvelous people there.
I would like to think the people who live in coastal Texas are safe. That evacuation efforts are both successful and unnecessary.
I have no patience for the sort of idiocy that denies people help from the government; that denies that the climate is changing; that politicizes misery - whether it is FEMA or healthcare.
But before I get on my high horse, I'd like to see the citizens of the Texas coast safe and sheltered from the storm.
I would like to think the people who live in coastal Texas are safe. That evacuation efforts are both successful and unnecessary.
I have no patience for the sort of idiocy that denies people help from the government; that denies that the climate is changing; that politicizes misery - whether it is FEMA or healthcare.
But before I get on my high horse, I'd like to see the citizens of the Texas coast safe and sheltered from the storm.
24
disappointing to see such animosity towards our fellow Americans. The people who will likely be most affected by this storm are more than likely not the same ones who are making policy recommendations and statements for Texas. Even denying climate change should not be a justification to hope that someone gets flooded. Lets hope the flooding is not as bad as anticipated.
24
As a current Houstonian (4 years) and former New Yorker (25 years), I find the comments that try to boil this down to retribution or comeuppance for the red tint of the state politics both ignorant and offensive. If you must judge an entire area based on the politicians who live there, I give you our president, NYC born and bred, as exhibit A. The fact is that we are a very diverse state with a wide range of political views. Yes, some here don't believe in global warming, or science, or facts, but don't write us all off.
75
NY didn't vote for Trump....because we know who he is and what he stands for. So don't hold him up as Exhibit A.
8
Who is in charge in the FEMA office? Has Trump appointed anyone?
14
The FEMA director is Brock Long, who has an undistinguished but real background in emergency management (mainly with Alabama). So, above average for the Trump administration.
big no
I'm surprised and disappointed by the nastiness shown on some of these comments. Many Texans aren't republicans and didn't vote for the current president. In fact the areas likely to be hard hit, including Corpus, San Antonio and Houston are the more liberal and diverse parts of the state.
Here in San Antonio people are readying for a lot of rain and flooding and we welcome our coastal neighbors. We want our coastal neighbors to get away from danger and be safe.
No one deserves to have a major category hurricane hit their home.
Here in San Antonio people are readying for a lot of rain and flooding and we welcome our coastal neighbors. We want our coastal neighbors to get away from danger and be safe.
No one deserves to have a major category hurricane hit their home.
73
Many Texans aren't and didn't, but most are and did. Anyway, run from water; hide from wind; keep your head down and save your money.
Here we go, they'll be crying for us Blue Staters to bail them out yet again.
13
Texas pays more in taxes then it gets back, like a few other states. I was born in Toms River and lived for years in Seaside Park NJ. When Sandy hit I don't remember any of my neighbors down here saying that NY and NJ deserved this because of their political beliefs. I guess haters gotta hate.
6
Can't wait for Pat Robertson to claim that Harvey is God's wrath like he did with Katrina.
80
Give him time. He will.
4
Pay attention and evacuate if and when told to. Lives are more important than property. Don't put first responders' lives at risk.
60
God telling the folks down there that global warming is real and to stop voting for republicans (unless they think they can recover without FEMA). But they are too religiously closed minded to hear Him.
84
Joe, you know Texas put a man on the moon, right? NASA didn't pray those rockets into space. We have science here, a lot of it.
5
People are going to be slammed by a hurricane. It's a great time for a sarcastic lecture.
2
Just like the disaster in New Orleans was predicted years before Katrina, an ecological disaster of even greater magnitude may be about to happen as foretold. There are numerous refineries right in the path of Harvey. They were built almost at sea level so there is a big risk of flooding. Chemical contamination could shut down also the entire Texas coast. Are they prepared?
48
Harvey is projected to come ashore about 100 miles east of Texas' major Gulf Coast refineries. However, the refineries have sustained direct hits from hurricanes more powerful than Harvey without sustaining major damages. Houston refineries are 45 miles from the Gulf.
3
It's not just refineries. It's chemical plants in Calhoun, Matagorda and Galveston Counties, oil tankers taking shelter in Corpus Christi and Galveston Bays, and a nuclear power plant northeast of Palacios Texas. All of that surrounded by hundreds of thousands of acres of natural splendor in estuaries and river deltas like Florida of the 1940's. It's heart breaking to think that the little-populated areas of the Gulf Coast could be wiped away in less than a day.
13
William- there are many refineries in Corpus Christi, the town where the hurricane is schedule to hit land.
6
Don't worry TX, LA, MS & AL your choice for president will be there for ya. You don't have anything to worry about. I'm sure he'll address this like he has done everything else... with a campaign rally. Sleep tight.
153
We are hoping so
I hope that the storm weakens and causes no great damage to Texans and others. But remember - "get of of my face, government" adherents - what government stands for when you cash its aid checks or receive federal assistance in the aftermath if the storm is bad. And remember, this tax-paying Democrat who voted for Hillary Clinton is helping to foot the bill. Because that's what we do and why we need government and must pay for it.
147
You're about the 75 hundredth person to make this weak and invalid point. No Texan is against providing aid for natural disasters.
1
The only thing red states want from the Federal Government is tax dollars from California and New York.
3
Texas is one of the states that pays in more than it gets back.
7
Texas climate change deniers may have trouble denying the intensification of the storm due to the increase in Gulf temperatures because of, um, climate change. But wishing all well--this is a dangerous weather system.
35
Can you provide scientific evidence, or a source, that supports your claim that man-made climate change is responsible for the very minor warming in the gulf? I hear these arguments, but I never see empirical evidence.
4
For the past decade, the U.S. has been in a "hurricane drought." They are less frequent and weaker than previous decades.
4
This is a chance for the political theory that a business man in The White House is smart for the country to be put to a test. So far the theory has proven to be bust. Everyone is remembering "Brownie" and I expect watching very closely.
In the near future, the mid-west needs to brace for another huge human migration from The Gulf States.
I can only shudder at the thought of hearing any more words come out of POTUS's mouth that have anything to do with human spirit, dignity or suffering.
God be with those in the storm's way. I would like to believe the rest of the country has your back. It remains to be seen.
In the near future, the mid-west needs to brace for another huge human migration from The Gulf States.
I can only shudder at the thought of hearing any more words come out of POTUS's mouth that have anything to do with human spirit, dignity or suffering.
God be with those in the storm's way. I would like to believe the rest of the country has your back. It remains to be seen.
25
Here we are, the season where the nation funds the red states like Texas and Louisiana because climate change, which they refuse to believe in, threatens to once again destroy their coastlines. And with the leftover money, we can fund their opioid epidemic and Trump's border wall.
79
Texas is one of the states that pays more in taxes then it gets back.
7
Texas Science teacher here. We teach climate change, and we also teach alternative energy resources. In fact, Texas is a national leader in alternative energies like wind and solar.
32
And the coming IL bailout? Here does that funding come from? And the wars on the South Side? Who will be ending that madness?
Everyone has issues in their states. But making political statements during a weather event that will end someone's life, somewhere, is just crass.
Everyone has issues in their states. But making political statements during a weather event that will end someone's life, somewhere, is just crass.
5
I hope people will consider that lives and livelihoods are at stake here, and countless taxpayer dollars, from all sides, including many people who vote many different ways, or don't vote at all. I'm not Republican and certainly not a fan of the current President, but I hope that Texas fares well. I'm liberal, Independent, Southern, a long time New Yorker, and love the NYTimes but discouraged that we can't see any situation outside the frame of political venom, even here. I know plenty of people in Texas who 'vote blue,' and if you watched the elections you saw the patterns are more urban /rural. -- We agree to come together as a country in times of crisis, or shall we just have another civil war since we each only care about our own interests (and often accuse others of only caring about theirs)? I now live in New Orleans, and we are very concerned about this hurricane's potential to us and our Texas neighbors, though we live in a red state (blue governor, blue mayor, red president). Do we not count because the majority of the state voted for Trump? We didn't here in New Orleans.
83
Of course lives count - northerners were horrified at the devastation in New Orleans, and many of us (including my family) went to LA & MS for 2 years in a row to work on rebuilding projects that were sponsored by local agencies.
I am tired of hearing the denial by the majority of Red State residents & politicians about the science of climate change, and its impact on the coasts.
I will be praying for these residents that they educate themselves about science after they recover from these storms.
I am tired of hearing the denial by the majority of Red State residents & politicians about the science of climate change, and its impact on the coasts.
I will be praying for these residents that they educate themselves about science after they recover from these storms.
6
Thank you for your comment. As another watching the developments and trying to determine what action is necessary, it is nice to read someone's comment who understands the potential devastation and that these systems destroy lives, regardless of political or religious affiliations. I am quite liberal and have friends who span almost the entirety of the political spectrum, and as you know, they will all be there when needed. Discounting an entire population because of blind prejudice (Texans, southerners, whatever) is just ignorant, whether coming from the left or the right.
7
Well said. A looming natural disaster is not the time to become petty.about politics. I lived in Houston during Hurricane Ike and we all helped each other out. It didn't matter that I was a liberal from California and my neighbors weren't. Good people are everywhere.
17
The eyes of the rest of us are upon you.
18
Very good.
2
Texans:
Time to remove the Confederate flags & other symbols of disunity. Every time disaster relief kicks in, we are all reminded that the rest of us pay for disaster relief. (particularly northerners that shovel our own snow & ice).
Texas (and other southern states) are part of the USA The Civil War is over - take down those Confederate symbols.
Good thoughts headed south as you prepare for this storrm.
Time to remove the Confederate flags & other symbols of disunity. Every time disaster relief kicks in, we are all reminded that the rest of us pay for disaster relief. (particularly northerners that shovel our own snow & ice).
Texas (and other southern states) are part of the USA The Civil War is over - take down those Confederate symbols.
Good thoughts headed south as you prepare for this storrm.
29
Samantha, if you came down to Rockport, Texas, an oak tree covered paradise which is about to be obliterated in the next 36 hours, you would be hard pressed to find a confederate flag let alone buy one. Rockport is a city formed by people from the North after the Civil War. I won't call them carpet-baggers because that is an unkind term.
Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio and Corpus Christi have Democrat majority voters. Both Texas and Michigan where you live are ethnically and politically diverse.
Please put your nasty preconceptions on the shelf and show some concern for human beings who are about to lose their houses, their communities and their jobs.
Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio and Corpus Christi have Democrat majority voters. Both Texas and Michigan where you live are ethnically and politically diverse.
Please put your nasty preconceptions on the shelf and show some concern for human beings who are about to lose their houses, their communities and their jobs.
25
Newsflash: Texans have way more Texas pride than confederate pride. We fly our flag as high as the Stars and Stripes because we were once a republic. We sell tortilla chips shaped like Texas. You should visit sometime.
14
Come down to Texas and look for those confederate flags. You won't find many of them, but you'll find lots of texas flags. As for the civil war, this part of Texas and the surrounding hill country was populated with German and Czech immigrants that were so pro-union the confederate army had to station troops here because they couldn't trust the population. It's time to learn the truth instead of the myths.
4
Pray for Texas.
25
Sorry Texas! No Federal Emergency Management Agency money. Your Republican Governor, Senators, Representatives and President are against Federal assistance.
201
You're so clever.
2
This is not a time for these kinds of comments.
My 93yo mom's home is smack in the path of this hurricane when it hits landfall- and she votes Democratic as many many do in this region of Texas. Let's pull together.
My 93yo mom's home is smack in the path of this hurricane when it hits landfall- and she votes Democratic as many many do in this region of Texas. Let's pull together.
119
Absolutely. Voter suppression is a lot of the reason Texas isn't more blue. A lot of Democrats in this state are going to need help--and not just because of the hurricane.
12
Every state should fund their own FEMA. If you live green, you will need less fund else use your own taxes to help your state.
I know Earth is shared, but this may get them thinking more if there is no other free money from other(blue) states.
I know Earth is shared, but this may get them thinking more if there is no other free money from other(blue) states.
38
That kind of defeats the whole purpose of a Federal government.
And there is no way a state like SC could have funded its own cleanup at Hurricane Hugo.
Even a wealthy state like CA would be hard pressed to pay for damages and cleanup after a major earthquake.
It's this provincial and parochial thinking that is destroying the unity of the United States.
And there is no way a state like SC could have funded its own cleanup at Hurricane Hugo.
Even a wealthy state like CA would be hard pressed to pay for damages and cleanup after a major earthquake.
It's this provincial and parochial thinking that is destroying the unity of the United States.
16
P2, you need to understand that people who live in Texas pay for both windstorm insurance and flood insurance out of their own pockets. Mine costs $4,875 this year. Just as Californians who had jobs found out in the Northridge earthquake, there are no FEMA freebie-hand outs for people can afford to pay Federal income taxes.
11
Dude! If you live green you are still going to have earthquakes. We also have volcanic eruptions in the country. Hawaii, St Helen's, Lassen are recent examples. The Earth won't reward you if you eat kale. It will still shake you and bake you with glorious geologic fury.
18
Although it certainly puts a crimp in weekend plans for a lot of Texans, at least having this potentially dangerous storm come in after the work week is over for many will allow emergency vehicles greater access to roads and highways. Hopefully, the storm will lose strength as it crosses over land but at a category 3, it's likely to do severe damage. Good luck to everyone in the lone star state.
71
Thank you for expressing sympathy towards real people.
27
The only thing "political" that I will contribute to the conversation at this point is that I am glad that we as a people continue to invest in the infrastructure and emergency services that support people in need when this kind of natural disaster happens.