Thank you for this story. It was a sobering reminder that many families are facing frustrating hours of sorting through things and painful years of recovery. I realize can and should do something to help our neighbors beyond reading about their pain. And I will.
5
An important detail in all of this is the fact that the current administration has just shuttered sign-up help and sign-up places for the Affordable Care Act, at a time when we currently have a new crop of potentially thousands of Americans who may have just lost their jobs and their health benefits, and who, accordingly, NEED subsidized health insurance. It costs money to have a healthy society, and if I currently lived anywhere near people who lost everything from Harvey and who were exposed to toxins, I'd want them to be healthy for the sake of all of us, even if I had to pay for it.
That's what civilized societies do.
That's what civilized societies do.
10
A friend of mine just bought a new home in Sacramento, in the flood plain. Flood insurance was required as part of the bank loan. Is that not the case in places like Houston? Or, do people just cancel it once they own their home outright?
1
If you read the article, their flood insurance ran out.
1
Meanwhile, will Irma hit New Jersey a week from now? I suppose I should reserve a motel room somewhere on the other side of the Appalachians just in case.
My heart aches for this family. I know exactly what this family is going through. I remember the endless phone calls, getting up at the crack to be first in line somewhere. The envy at people buying groceries while you bought bags of ice and peanuts butter and jelly as you had no refrigerator because yours sat without electricity for months in the heat. Tossing out ruined family possessions. The smell of mold that makes you feel like you will loose your mind. The insurance Okey-Doke..all of it is a painful memory. But you get perspective. You're grateful it was only 5 feet of water. You endure. This beautiful family will endure and they will be made whole in time as we were by their strength and the kindness of strangers. You will Not be forgotten by us.
23
My Healy, the excellent reporter for this story, just sent me the link for a new GoFundMe for this family for those interested in helping them directly:
https://www.gofundme.com/help-my-sister-who-lost-in-harvey
https://www.gofundme.com/help-my-sister-who-lost-in-harvey
8
Is there a gofundme for this family and/or others in their neighborhood?
By the way, I've seen pictures and read stories about Texans coming together to help each other, regardless of race or politics. There is good.
4
And a white Trump voting native born Texan family somewhere is also going the same hardships.
Who will cover their story?
Who will cover their story?
3
Oh, well, they're poor and black so why should we care? Let's not forget that the red states don't believe in climate change, or government interference in their affairs.. Why don't they pull themselves up by their own bootstraps ? Who needs the federal government now? Crybabies! When your ox is being gore it's different , right?
3
Houston voted overwhelmingly for Hillary.
3
@Leigh Embarrassing, but true...
The government has to cut the red tape described here or blood will be on their hands.
3
How much time until the next similar flood? With several in the past few years, Houston has to grow up and start planning realistically. It can no longer have laissez-faire development.
That said, I am struck by the beauty of the photos we see of Houston and sympathize with Houston's many sufferers.
That said, I am struck by the beauty of the photos we see of Houston and sympathize with Houston's many sufferers.
1
For all those haters out there: On buying a 2017 pathfinder vs. insurance... it is easier and cheaper to get a new car loan...people are at the mercy of the lenders. I bet a hundred bucks they have a really long repayment plan. That's why new cars cost so much. Not because they are expensive to make but because they offer pay over time of so long that your montly. payment s are small in comparision to an older car . Many don't consider the true cost.
5
In a Times op-ed today, two non-climate scientists tell us "What Climate Scientists Want You to See in the Floodwaters," never identifying their sources.
I'm not surprised. The research of both authors centers on how humans can best adapt to a changing climate, not what causes it - or how we might limit climate change itself. Climate scientists unanimously fault fossil fuel emissions for the effects driving superstorms like Harvey, so why don't Katharine Mach or Miyuki Hino bring up what noted climatologists like James Hansen or Ken Caldeira want us to see?
Mach/Miuki are students at Stanford's Woods Institute, affiliated with the school's fossil fuel-funded Precourt Institute and its infamous Natural Gas Initiative. With salaries dependent on the sale of fossil fuel, their professors would certainly find a climatology-based perspective perplexing.
As Upton Sinclair famously warned: "It is difficult to get a man to understand something when his salary depends upon his not understanding it."
I'm not surprised. The research of both authors centers on how humans can best adapt to a changing climate, not what causes it - or how we might limit climate change itself. Climate scientists unanimously fault fossil fuel emissions for the effects driving superstorms like Harvey, so why don't Katharine Mach or Miyuki Hino bring up what noted climatologists like James Hansen or Ken Caldeira want us to see?
Mach/Miuki are students at Stanford's Woods Institute, affiliated with the school's fossil fuel-funded Precourt Institute and its infamous Natural Gas Initiative. With salaries dependent on the sale of fossil fuel, their professors would certainly find a climatology-based perspective perplexing.
As Upton Sinclair famously warned: "It is difficult to get a man to understand something when his salary depends upon his not understanding it."
2
In the short term, adapting is the best we can do. That means don't revoke Obama's flood protection order, as Trump did just before Harvey struck. It's one thing being ignorant and obstinate about climate change. It's another being downright stupid and vindictive when it comes to people's lives.
6
$250 Million from private individuals to help people who have always been able to decided where to live and what to eat. Not one cent for the Rohingya. America should be ashamed !
4
I wish I could say otherwise, but this president *had to try* to convey empathy for flood victims. Saying he saw a lot of happiness, telling people in shelters to have a good time...
"They're really happy with what's going on," as if oblivious to the highly contaminated toxic waste sites flooded in the petrochemical belt of Texas.
From the air, the EPA guessed that 1/3 were already compromised.
After wading through a mix of who-knows-what industrial compounds, raw sewage, pollutants, & unnamed solvents from plants, people living closely in shelters are now subject to any variety of communicable diseases.
Meanwhile Hurricane Irma was 2000 miles from the East Coast when I opened up the Sunday paper. And we woke up to this president taunting North and South Korea, as well as China. His finger on the nuclear codes at any time.
And--of course, as this president flew away from the southern cost, air pollution experts observe that it's the lower income families having increased exposure to the nation's worst toxic air in Houston's East End.
Research tells us from 2009 U.S. corporations dumped more than 200 million pounds of toxins that affect human nervous systems, cancer-causing agents and poisons affecting pregnant women/child development in our many rivers, creeks, channels. inlets, tidewater, and waterways. Soon residents will go back to moldy homes filled with stagnant water, toxins and untold bacteria.
And the president says what a happy time this is.
"They're really happy with what's going on," as if oblivious to the highly contaminated toxic waste sites flooded in the petrochemical belt of Texas.
From the air, the EPA guessed that 1/3 were already compromised.
After wading through a mix of who-knows-what industrial compounds, raw sewage, pollutants, & unnamed solvents from plants, people living closely in shelters are now subject to any variety of communicable diseases.
Meanwhile Hurricane Irma was 2000 miles from the East Coast when I opened up the Sunday paper. And we woke up to this president taunting North and South Korea, as well as China. His finger on the nuclear codes at any time.
And--of course, as this president flew away from the southern cost, air pollution experts observe that it's the lower income families having increased exposure to the nation's worst toxic air in Houston's East End.
Research tells us from 2009 U.S. corporations dumped more than 200 million pounds of toxins that affect human nervous systems, cancer-causing agents and poisons affecting pregnant women/child development in our many rivers, creeks, channels. inlets, tidewater, and waterways. Soon residents will go back to moldy homes filled with stagnant water, toxins and untold bacteria.
And the president says what a happy time this is.
7
It would be nice if the "open-minded" NYT would find a white family deserving of our compassion for a change. Your narrative is showing.
6
Find a white family?
What difference does it make ? WE are all people !
Your narrative is showing.
What difference does it make ? WE are all people !
Your narrative is showing.
32
Perhaps another Marshall Plan is in order. Put a little white picket fence in front of every newly rebuilt house and let Trump call that his border wall. Then everybody wins.
4
The Marshall Plan saved our lives in Europe after WWII. This would be the best way to proceed for these people. Many of these homes cannot be rebuilt and to expect those without money or insurance to carry on is not the way. We can create a housing boom and make it possible for these people to rebuild their lives. Lets keep the border wall and such out of this. Houston needs to be rebuilt and to place this on the backs of these unfortunate people is not the American way. Set up a housing program it can be done.
5
Yes, Houston needs to be rebuilt but where is it safe in the future to live? Certainly not in the areas that are flooded now.
2
It's interesting to compare the pictures of flooded streets in Houston to that of Bangladesh, where monsoonal flooding is common. A lot less drywall, particle -board, laminate flooring and upholstered furniture to get soaked there. In some cases less I'd definitely more. Oxen probably don't mind getting soaked as much as a Ford Mustang I'm sure it's safe to say as well. The pictures speak for themselves. The answer may not be as complicated as we'd like to make it.
I urge commenters to wishhold comments criticizing Hurricane Harvey Victims This is not the time to voice opinions as to whether victims should have lived in Houston , should have purchased flood insurance ,etc. The victims are traumatized, have lost their homes, life's possessions, and in some cases, family members. The last thing that they need is for their trauma and devastation to be exacerbated by insensitive, heartless, and downright cruel comments.
I am no longer surprised by the cruelty and air of superiority expressed by such comments, while I am still stung by them, as the 5 year anniversary of Sandy approaches, and those comments keep coming, underneath ever article written about Sandy. It seems that people have an endless supply of bile to vent on natural disaster victims.
If you can't think of the adults, please Think of the CHILDREN who are victims, who read the comments, I was reading the New York Times by the time I was ten-40 years before I became a Sandy Victim
Think of how you would feel if YOU were on the receiving end, while it seems that you believe that you could not possibly be the victim of a natural disaster.
I am no longer surprised by the cruelty and air of superiority expressed by such comments, while I am still stung by them, as the 5 year anniversary of Sandy approaches, and those comments keep coming, underneath ever article written about Sandy. It seems that people have an endless supply of bile to vent on natural disaster victims.
If you can't think of the adults, please Think of the CHILDREN who are victims, who read the comments, I was reading the New York Times by the time I was ten-40 years before I became a Sandy Victim
Think of how you would feel if YOU were on the receiving end, while it seems that you believe that you could not possibly be the victim of a natural disaster.
22
The Hurricane is a most vivid warning, a rebuke to Trump for withdrawing us, against our will, from the Paris Climate Accord.
It is a tragic pity that some, who had nothing to do with Trump, must pay for his betrayal of America and the Planet..
Instead of admitting he is wrong, and joining Obama in saving future generations, this imbecile actually "Showboats", proving again how totally unfit he is for the office.
The affected area is now snake bit. It is a victim of Climate Change Deniers. It needs to be abandoned or it will be washed away again and again.
Rebuild on higher ground and elect decent folk with some intelligence for a change.
It is a tragic pity that some, who had nothing to do with Trump, must pay for his betrayal of America and the Planet..
Instead of admitting he is wrong, and joining Obama in saving future generations, this imbecile actually "Showboats", proving again how totally unfit he is for the office.
The affected area is now snake bit. It is a victim of Climate Change Deniers. It needs to be abandoned or it will be washed away again and again.
Rebuild on higher ground and elect decent folk with some intelligence for a change.
9
Rebuilding on higher ground is the only way, but is there even higher ground in the Houston area? Houston itself is flat as a pancake. It has overbuilt and has increased its population tremendously.
Clearly, planning is needed to keep flooding in the future to a minimum.
Clearly, planning is needed to keep flooding in the future to a minimum.
2
We have Billions for the Defense Department - more than it asks for - and only pennies for the citizens. Why isn't there a National uproar? Oh, wait. The Brewers are playing the Nationals.
12
I am wishing the Ford-Amofa family all the best and hoping that everything goes smoothly for Kris, Yaw, and their children. This is heart-rending -- and it is repeating a hundred thousand times over (if not more) all over Houston and the Gulf Coast in the wake of Harvey.
The most frightening thing to me is how unprepared nearly everyone was for this hurricane, even though it had been bearing down on the coast for days. The need for readiness "just in case" is something that does not seem to be emphasized enough -- and it should be. In CA, where I spent about 8 months, we had a "quake bag' net to the door, to grab on our way out of the house in case of earthquake. It had our IDs, water bottles, nonperishable food, emergency blankets, and basic first aid supplies. It seems this might be smart if one knows a hurricane is on the way, too.
The most frightening thing to me is how unprepared nearly everyone was for this hurricane, even though it had been bearing down on the coast for days. The need for readiness "just in case" is something that does not seem to be emphasized enough -- and it should be. In CA, where I spent about 8 months, we had a "quake bag' net to the door, to grab on our way out of the house in case of earthquake. It had our IDs, water bottles, nonperishable food, emergency blankets, and basic first aid supplies. It seems this might be smart if one knows a hurricane is on the way, too.
4
I think this poor family did try to prepare. They had no idea how bad it would be....
8
I think you will find many people in ALL disaster-prone areas aren't, in fact, prepared. It seems to be part of human nature.
2
Potus demonstrating huge heart. He feels the pain. Kudos to Potus for his great empathy .
3
It is with such sadness that I read this story. We will never know how many will never be able to put their lives back to what is was before Harvey.
The miles of red tape and formes people will have to endore. Hard working people through no fault of theirs. People like the Amofa family that are new home owners and those where the paint just barely dried on their new business ventures. America needs to do as much as possible to help these vicims. Forget the Wall use those funds for these people.
The miles of red tape and formes people will have to endore. Hard working people through no fault of theirs. People like the Amofa family that are new home owners and those where the paint just barely dried on their new business ventures. America needs to do as much as possible to help these vicims. Forget the Wall use those funds for these people.
7
I like your idea of using funds for the stupid wall to help people. On the other hand, the red tape is sadly necessary because so many bad people try to claim damages that they never had. It is those venal people that ruin it for the true victims and the tax payers. Also, I sympathize, but at the same time, it is my tax dollars that are going to be paying for the people who were too cheap to buy insurance! Why should we pay for the stupid government that allowed people to own homes without the flood insurance in a flood area???? Why doesn't someone educate people on saving money for future loss if they refuse to carry the insurance? Self-insure!!! For pete's sake.
In my neighborhood, we must have if we are it in the flood plain--thank god my local municipality is smart..
In my neighborhood, we must have if we are it in the flood plain--thank god my local municipality is smart..
3
The one fact tells it all - a new house just built in a flood plain with no requirement for flood insurance. It's criminal.
12
It's a shame that new homeowners don't know that floods aren't included in their insurance and insurance companies should make this clearer. It breaks my heart this family bought their first house, paid insurance, and then face devastation.
I bought a house last year, and it was only upon my one-year insurance renewal papers, which I took the time to look at (but might not have) to see a large announcement that my insurance doesn't include flood damage. Apparently, it's regulated by FEMA (which NYT recently had an article that they were trying to drastically cut the budget for to fund the MX-USA wall, but now, politically, may not be able to). Only after that notice did I call and get flood insurance.
I understand why flood insurance is government-regulated (apparently would bankrupt the private sector, and everyone needs their profit, ugh). But, like homeowner's insurance that lenders require you to get, this should be something they require you to get, too. Instead, it should be a requirement with an opt-out system. Rather than the reverse, where you have earnest community members making a step forward, only to learn later that they're not covered.
I bought a house last year, and it was only upon my one-year insurance renewal papers, which I took the time to look at (but might not have) to see a large announcement that my insurance doesn't include flood damage. Apparently, it's regulated by FEMA (which NYT recently had an article that they were trying to drastically cut the budget for to fund the MX-USA wall, but now, politically, may not be able to). Only after that notice did I call and get flood insurance.
I understand why flood insurance is government-regulated (apparently would bankrupt the private sector, and everyone needs their profit, ugh). But, like homeowner's insurance that lenders require you to get, this should be something they require you to get, too. Instead, it should be a requirement with an opt-out system. Rather than the reverse, where you have earnest community members making a step forward, only to learn later that they're not covered.
3
They chose not to buy insurance.
1
That is unfortunate. However, there are many flooded homes that were not supposed to flood as they were not in areas that flood but did this time.
If you are in a flood plain, Mortgage companies require flood insurance.
They would be foolish not to.
This needs to be looked into. BIG TIME.
The bank should be held responsible, or the "Planners" who drew up the maps should be responsible. Those who allowed the unregulated development in flood areas should be called on the carpet too.
I have a bad feeling envelopes were passed to make sure the flood plain maps were drawn in accordance with the developers instructions or ignored completely.
Regulations? We don't need no stinking regulations. And get rid of that EPA while you're at it.
They would be foolish not to.
This needs to be looked into. BIG TIME.
The bank should be held responsible, or the "Planners" who drew up the maps should be responsible. Those who allowed the unregulated development in flood areas should be called on the carpet too.
I have a bad feeling envelopes were passed to make sure the flood plain maps were drawn in accordance with the developers instructions or ignored completely.
Regulations? We don't need no stinking regulations. And get rid of that EPA while you're at it.
6
I must be an unpleasant grump, but why did they not drive their car a block up the street where it appeared the flood did not reach when the waters were rising? And how many adults are in this group? Why are they not at the house, cleaning it out. Doors and windows open, fans running if possible, pulling wet insulation out of the walls. I have been through floods, including Hurricane Agnes. We did our own clean-up. I learned that most furniture can be saved and the house is not destroyed if you get busy right away. And yet, to spend three days on the phones waiting for the government to do something? Americana passivity.
4
To answer your question. The water rose quickly and unexpectedly. There were 3 adults including myself with good common sense. It is easy to critize when not in the situation. Our main priority was the safety of the six children in the household at the time. May God bless you.
4
really sad that people invest in 2017 Pathfinder but not on flood insurance, priorities in life!!
3
"Overwhelming Start" should mean "exceedingly large start." The writer means "Overwhelming Obstacles to Start."
3
Capitalism kills in a variety of ways.
This is only one.
This is only one.
8
It does seem that that is true regardless of the context.
My heart is with the Amofa family and all the others who are in similar circumstances. I hope the NYT keeps us updated on your progress. May your faith and your family be a sustenance to you in these very trying times. I've donated to food banks and Red Cross, and will give more in the weeks ahead.
7
What a poignant story, beautifully told. Good people and solid citizens, caught in a disaster and doing everything they can to survive and move on. The success of the recovery effort won't be judged only on the heroic rescues of thousands of flood victims, or even the well-run shelters many fled to, or the remarkable generosity and fortitude displayed in accounts like this. It will be judged on the long-term reconstruction efforts, and major corrections for a city that builds without zoning laws, and lacks green space and other policies that mitigate this sort of devastation. Simply patching up Houston won't be enough. I worry that the GOP governor and our federal regime that's blithely cutting environmental regulations and assistance to those in need will not take heed. After Katrina, some got rich off the disaster and others spent years trying to rebuild their lives with little support from a corrupt city government and an indifferent White House. Please Lord, not again.
3
The only good result of a disaster like this is to see the outpouring of concern and help for those who are suffering. The thoughtful comments and the lack of swiping at those who may have different political views is a refreshing change . Sorry that the poor people of Houston had to suffer to make people realize how important we all are to one another and how much we need each other's help and support .
5
This is I know this is sacrilege to say such a thing right now but how many other people in Huston decided a new car was more important than buying flood insurance? I live in a city that has earthquakes, we pay a ridiculous amount to stave off the disaster of finding ourselves in a situation like those in the narrative, even though it's probably never going to happen! We drive cars that are over 10 yrs old because we have to, we pay for insurance instead. I'm having a hard time getting happy about subsidizing people who don't preemptively protect themselves and their family, this includes voting for people like Cruz and Trump.
8
To answer your question- my sister and I don't live in a flood zone. We received over 51 inches of water my house did not flood but my sister's did. They also released a 2 damns which caused the flooding in neighborhoods in many of the suburbs.
4
Thanks to all the Good People from all corners of America and Mexico, among other countries, who have helped and are helping those Texans ravaged by the storm. Hundreds of millions of dollars are pouring in from every corner of the world.
No, Good Old Texas Boys and Girls, you do NOT do it all for yourselves.
No, Good Old Texas Boys and Girls, you do NOT do it all for yourselves.
10
So, Trump got a Do-Over, on Harvey. As usual. His first performance in Houston was just a dress rehearsal. He came back, with his SpokesNurse, Melania. Really, really pathetic. Thanks, GOP.
13
When I read stories like this, it makes me sad.
I'm sure this family will still have to deal with a mortgage as well as pay for any damages.
I don't know if there is some sort of insurance one can take out in which a mortgage can be paid off when such a catastrophe such as this one happens.
This morning I heard a woman on the news blaming the local government for not warning them of this hurricane.
I know I heard about from the news way up here in Illinois.
Perhaps folks just don't get how hurricanes can be worst than tornados in that it carries water destruction too.
I thought about an episode of Sixty Minutes in which a village of people studies the signs of the tsunami over the years and moved to higher grounds, not losing any of their members, while most of us cling to our few material possessions.
Then I thought about the Great Flood mentioned in the Bible.
To me, that story's message has more to do with preparations, than with God's wrath. Noah's family prepared, others didn't.
We are supposed to live with nature, respect nature and always know that there is no humanly/earthly remedy to conquer what nature can do.
Know the signs and prepare.
Yes, one might lose earthly possessions, but as long as one has life, we can always start anew.
I'm sure this family will still have to deal with a mortgage as well as pay for any damages.
I don't know if there is some sort of insurance one can take out in which a mortgage can be paid off when such a catastrophe such as this one happens.
This morning I heard a woman on the news blaming the local government for not warning them of this hurricane.
I know I heard about from the news way up here in Illinois.
Perhaps folks just don't get how hurricanes can be worst than tornados in that it carries water destruction too.
I thought about an episode of Sixty Minutes in which a village of people studies the signs of the tsunami over the years and moved to higher grounds, not losing any of their members, while most of us cling to our few material possessions.
Then I thought about the Great Flood mentioned in the Bible.
To me, that story's message has more to do with preparations, than with God's wrath. Noah's family prepared, others didn't.
We are supposed to live with nature, respect nature and always know that there is no humanly/earthly remedy to conquer what nature can do.
Know the signs and prepare.
Yes, one might lose earthly possessions, but as long as one has life, we can always start anew.
8
"This morning I heard a woman on the news blaming the local government.
for not warning them of this hurricane I know I heard about from the news
way up here in Illinois."
I heard of the hurricane in New York, I also read in this paper, and elsewhere,
that local officials urged residents not to evacuate, with a few local officials dissenting. My guess is that the woman was referring to the local government's having urged residents not to evacuate.
"Perhaps folks just don't know that hurricanes can be worst that tornadoes
in that it carries water destruction ,too."
Who are these "folks"whom you believe " Just don't know that hurricanes can
be worst than tornadoes. in that it carries water destruction too?!"
"Know the signs and prepare. " There is no way to prepare, adequately for a Hurricane,other than to move away from the area. Of course, nearly every area is prone to one form of natural disaster or another, though people outside of Hurricane prone areas seem to think otherwise, at least until their area is struck, and their Senators. who voted against the Sandy Relief Package crawl back to Congress begging for the money they sought to deny Sandy ravaged states.
"Yes, one might lose earthly possessions, but as long as one has life, we can always start anew."
That is trite,and easy for you to say given that you have not just lost your home, cars, and life's possessions. Try mustering up some compassion.for those who are suffering devastating losses.
for not warning them of this hurricane I know I heard about from the news
way up here in Illinois."
I heard of the hurricane in New York, I also read in this paper, and elsewhere,
that local officials urged residents not to evacuate, with a few local officials dissenting. My guess is that the woman was referring to the local government's having urged residents not to evacuate.
"Perhaps folks just don't know that hurricanes can be worst that tornadoes
in that it carries water destruction ,too."
Who are these "folks"whom you believe " Just don't know that hurricanes can
be worst than tornadoes. in that it carries water destruction too?!"
"Know the signs and prepare. " There is no way to prepare, adequately for a Hurricane,other than to move away from the area. Of course, nearly every area is prone to one form of natural disaster or another, though people outside of Hurricane prone areas seem to think otherwise, at least until their area is struck, and their Senators. who voted against the Sandy Relief Package crawl back to Congress begging for the money they sought to deny Sandy ravaged states.
"Yes, one might lose earthly possessions, but as long as one has life, we can always start anew."
That is trite,and easy for you to say given that you have not just lost your home, cars, and life's possessions. Try mustering up some compassion.for those who are suffering devastating losses.
2
Luckily Noah didn't have to deal with zoning laws back then. He never could have gotten away with building something like an ark in his backyard without the neighbors complaining and code enforcement shutting it down. Poor Houstonians, having to rebuild with the wrath of the law looking down upon them in judgement.
Helping people rebuild will require not just a long-term commitment on the part of aid agencies, but the compassion ordinary citizens. My hope is that the NYT will continue to provide this sort of up-close coverage of Harvey's aftermath. We, as a nation, need to be aware of the circumstances people confront as they attempt to restore order to their lives.
7
Trump arrives, says "have fun" and hands out a few hotdogs. And somehow, people seem grateful. Meanwhile ordinary people have done much of the real work of saving stranded survivors. These storms will get stronger and stronger as the waters heat and rise from our selfishness. We didn't want to conserve, reuse and reduce our consumption. We didn't want to stay home instead of flying here and there. We didn't want to worship our soil and water. Our governments did nothing to help us. Blame Reagan, the Bushes, the Clintons, Obama and Trump. Now it's too late.
5
It's never too late
The sad part is that those who developed the city knew what could happen as a result of their building and no one in office cared. I know people will blame the voters but we are supposed to be electing leaders. People with courage who once in office are supposed to tell us the truth and not just be a rubber stamp for developers. I am watching the coastline of Sarasota being given away and I watch buildings like The Vue going up and wonder if I am the only one who thinks what will happen when we get hit with a hurricane and there is no natural coast left to protect us. That is the real tragedy off Harvey: the betrayal of the people by those entrusted to have vision when it's lacking in the electorate. For now, I hope generosity will be there for the the Ford-Amofa family, and they can rebuild and move forward.
9
FYI: Whether it was right or wrong, Houston citizens -- NOT our elected officials -- have at least twice voted down implementation of zoning ordinances. We already can see how the lack of zoning ordinances allowed construction of subdivisions in the path of water released from reservoirs designed to hold massive amounts of rainfall. Until Harvey, all the plans for use of those reservoirs to capture and contain max fill were theoretical, as was the frequency and impacts of controlled releases of water to keep the reservoirs from overflowing or bursting once each held max amount of rainfall.
5
Further up the west coast of Florida, towards St. Pete, there's been rampant building. Mind you, no room for green spaces just large expensive towers with many condominiums. In case of a direct hurricane the area will be destroyed. Years ago when Florida had several hurricanes there was an article in the Tampa Bay Times with the headline: "We are not prepared". Too few streets to allow people to get off the barrier island.
Municipalities want to maximize their tax revenues. A park does not bring in money, an expensive condominium tower does.
This is what Houston did: they overbuilt. They built on precious prairie-land that could have absorbed some of the water. They had rampant growth. They didn't say "no" because a neighboring county may have said "yes" to development. I doubt this will change.
Municipalities want to maximize their tax revenues. A park does not bring in money, an expensive condominium tower does.
This is what Houston did: they overbuilt. They built on precious prairie-land that could have absorbed some of the water. They had rampant growth. They didn't say "no" because a neighboring county may have said "yes" to development. I doubt this will change.
2
Agreed
Trump was there in Texas this weekend consoling the masses, and demonstrating empathy on a level we have rarely seen in other Presidents. At one point he picked up a little African American baby boy and give him a gentle kiss on the cheek. The media criticized him for not doing this and so when he returned to the scene of the disaster, he showed feeling. But where is this picture in the NY Times? Where is the coverage of POTUS's empathy? The media loves to cover up anything positive the President does.
6
Wake up Steve. Too little too late.
11
"Trump demonstrated empathy on a level rarely seen in other Presidents." Really ?!!
"At one point, he picked up a little African American baby boy and gave him a gentle kiss on the cheek."
Trump knows a photo op when. he sees one. He's someone who admits to having chosen to announce an unpopular pardon during a Hurricane because he knew that more people would be watching T.V. due to the Hurricane,and that it would increase his ratings. Trump is playing for the camera. This isn't empathy, it's acting.
Where was he when the White Supremacists were marching with torches, Ku-Klux-Klan style ,chanting"replace the Jews ,spewing hatred, racism, anti-semitism and pro-Nazism ? The President you believe "has demonstrated empathy on a level we have rarely seen in other Presidents " refused to condemn the White Supremacists. The news reported that no U.S. President had failed to denounce White Supremacy as Trump had. Trump probably forced himself to kiss the African American baby. given his pro -White Supremacy stand.
"At one point, he picked up a little African American baby boy and gave him a gentle kiss on the cheek."
Trump knows a photo op when. he sees one. He's someone who admits to having chosen to announce an unpopular pardon during a Hurricane because he knew that more people would be watching T.V. due to the Hurricane,and that it would increase his ratings. Trump is playing for the camera. This isn't empathy, it's acting.
Where was he when the White Supremacists were marching with torches, Ku-Klux-Klan style ,chanting"replace the Jews ,spewing hatred, racism, anti-semitism and pro-Nazism ? The President you believe "has demonstrated empathy on a level we have rarely seen in other Presidents " refused to condemn the White Supremacists. The news reported that no U.S. President had failed to denounce White Supremacy as Trump had. Trump probably forced himself to kiss the African American baby. given his pro -White Supremacy stand.
11
I'm sorry but why are you not aware that it's standard procedure for every politician to kiss babies when cameras are present? In itself it says nothing about the person's qualities.
4
Joel Osteen - the preacher who did not shelter Houstonians until a Twitter storm, is on this morning, explaining the hurricane as something that will help you flex your spiritual muscles. Will he help this family and others? Write your networks, Murdoch's Fox Channel among them, to get this conman off the air and ask these networks to donate money to help. There are going to be a lot of scammers working this hurricane and TV networks need to act responsible.
31
Joel Osteen allegedly is worth USD 50M. One of the most effective ways to deal with a fraud like Osteen is to STOP giving him money. Make him support "his" church, his family, his yacht, and his entire life with his own money.
8
I never understood these preachers presiding over mega churches. Stupid people give money to allow for a very lavish lifestyle that they themselves could never afford. Stupid is what stupid does.
Why did he not want to house people in his church? Because he did not want to have it messed up. That would have cost money to restore. So he said he wasn't asked.
Again, "preachers" like him would not exist but for the stupidity of people handing over their hard-earned money.
Why did he not want to house people in his church? Because he did not want to have it messed up. That would have cost money to restore. So he said he wasn't asked.
Again, "preachers" like him would not exist but for the stupidity of people handing over their hard-earned money.
7
Interesting to see how well all that praying before the storm hit worked...after the damage was done. http://www.godisimaginary.com
8
Totally agree - love that website, by the way!
1
All that can be said is "Go forward." In a year, two years, five, ten, you will remember what happened, and what you did about it...you did not roll over and play dead. You did what needed to be done. It's only a week since this terrible disaster...keep going, Houston! If I could get someone to cover my bills I'd be with you with a shovel, waders, the works. Unfortunately I too am just a paycheck away from the streets. But the rest of the country hasn't forgotten you, I think of you every day, I share your stories with people who complain about little petty things in their lives, I remember you when I wake up each morning.
Keep going God bless
Keep going God bless
12
Thank you for your kind remarks
Been there. Water bubbling up the floorboards, abandoning my house to the water. Decades before l quit panicking at thunderstorms. My white family was well off, with flood insurance, and yet the fear, stress, and disruption long outlived the event. "Rebuilding" brick & mortar is easy for Trump, but how can he and his henchmen, bent on destroying gov't, help the poor & people of color, whom he considers disposable, less than human? What happens when the next disaster hits a state he did not win?
19
Plenty of white people have suffered catastrophic losses due to Hurricanes, and either did. not have flood insurance, or had flood insurance that did not pay out, despite their having paid in for decades. Why do feel compelled to turn Hurricane Harvey into a "black " versus "White "issue ? I am a Superstorm Sandy victim.
Most of the Sandy victims whom I know personally, who were not covered for their catastrophic losses, are white.
Ironically, many poor people voted Trump & his henchman into office.
Most of the Sandy victims whom I know personally, who were not covered for their catastrophic losses, are white.
Ironically, many poor people voted Trump & his henchman into office.
5
I just read another article in which President T***p is quoted as saying, as he departed a helping-hand visit to Houston survivors, "Have a good time, everybody!" Really? "Have a good time?"
I wonder what he'd say to a crowd of concentration camp survivors immediately after liberation ... "You look terrific! Good luck, you guys."
The man is a social disaster, not unlike Harvey.
I wonder what he'd say to a crowd of concentration camp survivors immediately after liberation ... "You look terrific! Good luck, you guys."
The man is a social disaster, not unlike Harvey.
30
Let the Trump Boondoggle Begin!
4
To give supplies (or funds) directly to people who are volunteering in work teams on the front line, here are two among the hundreds:
Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church
11507 Huffmeister Road
Houston, TX 77065
@ctrcc
Second Baptist Church
29900 Hwy 290
Cypress, TX 77433
@secondcypress
Do this:
Track down their facebook pages and see what they need.
Order it on Amazon and send it to them.
It don't get any simpler.
Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church
11507 Huffmeister Road
Houston, TX 77065
@ctrcc
Second Baptist Church
29900 Hwy 290
Cypress, TX 77433
@secondcypress
Do this:
Track down their facebook pages and see what they need.
Order it on Amazon and send it to them.
It don't get any simpler.
12
Bill G, thank you for these two addresses! This is a perfect way to donate directly to those who need it right NOW!
4
Also go follow Shaun King on Facebook. He's working with Dallas attorney Lee Merritt to take truckloads of supplies to Houston. You can donate by shopping from the Amazon list they'rthey're managing.
6
Thank you for your post.People want to ensure that their donations make it to those who actually need them.
May I suggested ordering N-95 masks from Amazon- $8.95 for 20 masks ? (There may be an even cheaper price ).
I am a Superstorm Sandy Victim.FEMA advised Sandy victims to wear N-95 masks when working with mold, while this story references cutting into mold without a mask.
May I suggested ordering N-95 masks from Amazon- $8.95 for 20 masks ? (There may be an even cheaper price ).
I am a Superstorm Sandy Victim.FEMA advised Sandy victims to wear N-95 masks when working with mold, while this story references cutting into mold without a mask.
2
The only aspect of this for which I'd blame government is their haste to build without adequate infrastructure planning. I see this everywhere. Build, build, build, but don't worry about the unseen.
Anecdotal personal interest stories don't do your readers any favors and just serve to fodder hate. There will always be the poor among us.
The fact is, too many people believe government is their lifeline. There's only so much police, fire, and other first responders can do to rescues thousands of ppl from flood. This woman is looking for a rental car? Seriously? How many others are doing the same thing? Believe me, rich/poor, nobody's going to find a rental car.
This serves as a huge reminder, we're all responsible for ourselves. It's been only one week. Wait until months go by, FEMA trailers go up, and stand there for years with those in them not wanting to leave, starting arguments, etc. is that, too, Trumps fault? That's exactly the way I see this going by these articles in the NYT.
He did an excellent job getting as many boots on the ground ASAP along with shelters, food, necessities. He can't produce rental cars.
Anecdotal personal interest stories don't do your readers any favors and just serve to fodder hate. There will always be the poor among us.
The fact is, too many people believe government is their lifeline. There's only so much police, fire, and other first responders can do to rescues thousands of ppl from flood. This woman is looking for a rental car? Seriously? How many others are doing the same thing? Believe me, rich/poor, nobody's going to find a rental car.
This serves as a huge reminder, we're all responsible for ourselves. It's been only one week. Wait until months go by, FEMA trailers go up, and stand there for years with those in them not wanting to leave, starting arguments, etc. is that, too, Trumps fault? That's exactly the way I see this going by these articles in the NYT.
He did an excellent job getting as many boots on the ground ASAP along with shelters, food, necessities. He can't produce rental cars.
10
No, he didn't.
Government is for establishing infrastructure (physical, technological, financial, regulatory, etc.) that can prevent and prepare for crisis. The current 'administration' is inept and destructive towards building a safe, healthy, egalitarian civil society. We build our structures so that those who wield power don't continue to use and abuse every resource at hand.
Government is for establishing infrastructure (physical, technological, financial, regulatory, etc.) that can prevent and prepare for crisis. The current 'administration' is inept and destructive towards building a safe, healthy, egalitarian civil society. We build our structures so that those who wield power don't continue to use and abuse every resource at hand.
9
Read more carefully. She is calling private rental car companies to rent a car, not expecting FEMA to provide one. (What else do you expect her to do? Her own car was ruined by the flood, and she and her husband need a car to get to work.)
18
Texas Gov. Abbott got the first boots on the ground when he activated all members of the Texas National Guard. By last Sunday -- the day after Harvey made landfall -- there were boots on the ground because Orange County, CA sent 3 massive urban search & rescue (USR) vehicles and crews; Tennessee sent Unit 1 US&R; Memphis, TN Fire Dept sent smaller, specialized vehicles; Lincoln, NB and Salt Lake City, UT sent US&R teams; other cities -- within and e tern all to Texas -- sent a number of ambulances w/EMT crews. Then came the civilian Cajun Navy's cordon of pickup trucks pulling boats and deploying across South Texas to perform water rescues of Texans with no options for escape. All these boots were on the ground in Te as BEFORE DT ever made his way to Corpus Christi mid-week last week. Give credit to the owners of all these boots who were on the ground in Texas long before DT put his own 2 feet on Texas soil.
5
I've lived in a house that flooded and I pity and commiserate with those in Texas and LA that flooded in this terrible tragedy. A flooded house will test your abilities and character to the fullest.
5
OK I see there is a mention, well down the page.
So let me apologise and then give you some essential advice.
The news goes at the TOP of the page. Wow. How come you don't know that?
So let me apologise and then give you some essential advice.
The news goes at the TOP of the page. Wow. How come you don't know that?
4
Both heartbreaking and full of hope. I pray this family and the thousands of others like them find a way to get home and live in peace and comfort.
4
Oh, how my heart goes out to you, you who have faced natural disaster and now face a man made disaster.
Years ago, while my husband and I were away, leaving a friend to house sit our home, we received a garbled message that there had been a fire at our home.
We got back as soon as we could, thinking of a fire in the kitchen maybe, to find the smoking wreckage of the foundation of what had been our home.
Apparently the friend watching the house had left a space heater on in the bedroom and left for a holiday - we had, literally, nothing left.
We went on an archaeological dig in the smoldering ashes - the smell of burn and ash still stays with me - and found a few treasures.
Obviously a total loss, our insurer made us make a list of everything that was there at the time of the fire, provide receipts, for thing- bought years ago and burned up - and even proof of ownership of my car that was destroyed when the heat pump fell on it in the garage - the car insurer said it had to be moved to be totaled and the home insurer said it could not be.
All told, a house fire, total loss, took us over a year to get paid for, the community cited us for not being in compliance, and the City of St. Petersburg sent a Notice of Code Violation, while the house was still smoking, for having a "burned structure" on our property.
No disaster, just our own, no FEMA, just red tape, a year before we could rebuild - court dates, fines, nightmares.
We are with you Houston.
Years ago, while my husband and I were away, leaving a friend to house sit our home, we received a garbled message that there had been a fire at our home.
We got back as soon as we could, thinking of a fire in the kitchen maybe, to find the smoking wreckage of the foundation of what had been our home.
Apparently the friend watching the house had left a space heater on in the bedroom and left for a holiday - we had, literally, nothing left.
We went on an archaeological dig in the smoldering ashes - the smell of burn and ash still stays with me - and found a few treasures.
Obviously a total loss, our insurer made us make a list of everything that was there at the time of the fire, provide receipts, for thing- bought years ago and burned up - and even proof of ownership of my car that was destroyed when the heat pump fell on it in the garage - the car insurer said it had to be moved to be totaled and the home insurer said it could not be.
All told, a house fire, total loss, took us over a year to get paid for, the community cited us for not being in compliance, and the City of St. Petersburg sent a Notice of Code Violation, while the house was still smoking, for having a "burned structure" on our property.
No disaster, just our own, no FEMA, just red tape, a year before we could rebuild - court dates, fines, nightmares.
We are with you Houston.
21
We at the Jersey Shore share your pain, suffering and frustration. We took a direct hit. The Ocean created a breach of an inlet that was filled Cause all waterways to historic heights. It was ugly, sand everywhere, flooding, homes moved into waterways, destroyed, partially destroyed, flooded with up to six feet of water. No electricity then it snowed 8 inches. When the water receded and the owners came home nothing but household belongs everywhere. This is not pretty and stood as a reminder of what was lost. However, we fortunate in that no life was lost. We are not totally rebuilt as of this date. We endured Chris Christie and his picks of companies that gave monies to finance his political future while we suffered. We had to pay the firm in charge of FEMA the full fee even when he had to fire them for incompetence. People completed and filed forms 3 times at the same agency run by various firms. There is a shortage of qualified house raisers. Do not trust contractor's with out of state license plates. I hope you get help a lot faster than we did, I hope the water recedes and they will pay attention to rising waters up and down the east coast. Unfortunately here they let them rebuild bigger in flood areas. Make them make your town safer from rebuilding homes from the waterways that cause so much damage. My communities is not safe from another storm and there will be another. My home is predicted in less than 25 years to be a waterfront property.
57
As a New Jersey resident, let me say a few words about the "Jersey Shore." It is a low-life place, and I mean the people who run it.
3
As a Jersey Shore native, I watched as humongous mansions were built a hundred yards away from the tide, watched as existing seaside communities were even more built up, listened to the "pundits" who happily crowed that New Jersey hadn't been directly hit by a hurricane since 1903 ... and thought "your time will come." And it did, in 2012.
4
I am your fellow Sandy Victim,from Long Beach, New York. It sounds as if your experience was much like mine. Long Beach had the highest recorded ocean surge in New York State, during Sandy.The ocean breached the protective sand berms. The ocean and bay met, submerging the entire barrier island of Long Beach, Long Beach was without power. heat, phone service of any kind, internet service & running water, as sewage contaminated the water supply hours after Sandy made landfall. We could not bathe,or brush our teeth with that water.The streets were filled with boat, cars purged from garages, debris, boardwalk,possessions, and more. The boardwalk looked as if a child had had a tantrum and smashed a toy made of Popsicle sticks. I am sorry that you, too, have suffered such loss, and that Chris Christie made things worse. We in Long Beach and surrounds dealt and deal with the submissions of the same paperwork multiple times. Some homes that have been raised have tipped over. One elevated home toppled over onto a neighbor's roof. Clearly, corners are being cut.We do have the Army Corps of Engineers in Long Beach involved in a mitigation. project. Unbelievably, the barriers that are being built are not high enough to protect Long Beach from an Ocean surge equivalent to that of Sandy's.
I feel your pain, as well as that of the Hurricane Harvey Victims. Please know that this Sandy victim will keep you in her thoughts. I hope that you will be totally rebuilt soon.
I feel your pain, as well as that of the Hurricane Harvey Victims. Please know that this Sandy victim will keep you in her thoughts. I hope that you will be totally rebuilt soon.
3
All or most of the families and businesses face overwhelming concerns. I've been through hurricanes floods that follow. The sickening sights of homes gutted by mud and water is devastating. But, and we must admit this, we know that we have built homes, factories, business, malls, and even government facilities on known, well documented and often ravaged, flood plains. We've even seen permits given by EPA and other state and federal agencies that give exceptions to new buildings including chemical and hazardous plants. We've also re-routed rivers, placed dams, and built access ramps to bridges that we know are treacherous, and repeated flood zones. The destruction of wet-lands by limiting the flow of rivers is another major cause of floods such as Katrina that devastated New Orleans. In Harrisburg PA a corridor known as Paxton Creek frequently floods as the Susquehanna backs up due to ice jams or storms, flooding Cameron Street from the Northern end of the creek, through the Harrisburg Community College, down Cameron St. (a major artery) all the way to MIddletown, Highsprire and Steelton. The state recently built a computer center for Penndot on that flood plain knowing full well it will be destroyed in the next major flood. Homes are still built along the banks of the Susquehanna or within striking of the next deluge.
The point is we ask for too many of the problems. We know, truly know, where the flood plains are. We know where we have built unnecessarily. Let's stop.
The point is we ask for too many of the problems. We know, truly know, where the flood plains are. We know where we have built unnecessarily. Let's stop.
39
This was a 500 year storm. Not every flooded home was built in a flood plain You are using an intellectual argument to make an ignorant point. Come down and help and see for yourself that not all these, in fact most of the flooded homes are not in flood zones.
5
I believe it's now categorized as a 1000 year storm.
2
You need to check your facts. It is your ignorance that is revealed. Furthermore it makes no difference how many so-called year storm this or any other storm may appear or not. The point is that hurricanes have known consequences as do the consequences on building on very, very well known, documented flood plains. We also cannot deny the known man-made causes and claim they are "intellectual arguments". It is ignorant and dangerous to make false assumptions. A great amount of the flooding in Texas has happened before. And it will happen again. The Mississippi, Susquehanna, Allegheny, Susquenita and dozens of other rivers across the nation routinely flood. It does not have to be a 100, 200, 500 or 800 year flood to do overwhelming and devastating damage to property and lives.
11
Trump attempts to govern the country as he did as CEO of Trump's real estate enterprises. It is too early to know whether he will succeed or not in the case of Texas' Noah-type big flood event.
During times of natural catastrophes requiring government intervention, Reagan's old joke comes to mind: The most terrifying words in the English language are: I'm from the government and I'm here to help.
During times of natural catastrophes requiring government intervention, Reagan's old joke comes to mind: The most terrifying words in the English language are: I'm from the government and I'm here to help.
9
Reagan was a joke. The fact that the GOP still regards him as an icon merely shows the intellectual poverty of the GOP.
25
Are there ways to help families directly? Some of the well-meant contributions to larger charities will get delayed in bureaucracy until they have an effective presence on the ground. For urgent short-term needs, it would be nice to supplement the more structured work of those charities with some discretionary cash to the families in distress - Volunteer organizations? Local churches and community centers? GOFundMe pages? Paypal? what is the best way to make these new options work efficiently to help in case of disaster?
24
I understand the Coast Guard saved 11,000 people.
In fact they flew in winds that the president wouldn't have dared to fly into in Marine One, even though he had the best pilots, and arguably one of the most capable helicopters, in the world.
Sad! Bigly!
In fact they flew in winds that the president wouldn't have dared to fly into in Marine One, even though he had the best pilots, and arguably one of the most capable helicopters, in the world.
Sad! Bigly!
22
Just days ago we had a total eclipse slash across the heart of America. On its heels, the costliest natural disaster in US history followed shortly. And now the weather models this morning show powerful Hurricane Irma turning up Chesapeake Bay towards Washington DC - on September 11th. Is "Nature" trying to tell us something?
14
This story seems very real and accurate. In fact all I have read about Harvey here in the NYT has been undeliverable yet I believe it. I imagine that your process and level of professional expertise is similar for all subject you cover. How can an organization like yours in an American institution so deeply integrated into our culture be called "FAKE"?
Your reporting causes me to take action. I am donating a portion of my discretionary income to the Red Cross for Harvey victims. A story on steps we can take to support recovery efforts and what we can do to help our county avoid future weather related catastrophes would be helpful.
We have your back Texas.
Your reporting causes me to take action. I am donating a portion of my discretionary income to the Red Cross for Harvey victims. A story on steps we can take to support recovery efforts and what we can do to help our county avoid future weather related catastrophes would be helpful.
We have your back Texas.
18
Wow...indoctrination truly does work!
4
Hurricane Sandy groups in the Rockaways said that you have to think about the kids and Christmas now because these kids lost everything. I give to Toys for Tots but I will be looking to see if they have a fund specifically for Harvey this year as well..
5
I hope all of these continually demonstrating leftist a well as Pelosi, Schumer, Warren and the rest of the "mouths" personally donate and we learn what they did donate (if they even did as they talk a good story).
8
Democratic Long Beach, New York just sent three trucks loaded with supplies to Houston arriving on Tuesday. We remember the help we got and wanted to pay it forward despite opposition from Republican Texas after Sandy. We know everyone is in this together regardless of address. What did you donate?
18
And this snipe is relevant to what in this story, in the tragedy these people face?
15
FYI, the recent violent demonstrations have been staged by the right, alt-right, to be exact. Glad to read your concerns about the victims, though.
3
Texas made Trump wait until Harvey was over as even they can't take two natural disasters simultaneously. Hey Texas, keep Trump--no one wants him back.
22
Not knocking this story but i have 5 kids and was rescued off my roof and my house and car is still under water and weve been back & forth from shelters..im just trying to get to work and make money4 us and can't... we just was able to take a warm bath and wash our hair..we had no food yesterday...at least she has family here and transportation...we have none..she should be grateful for what she has ..because we literally lost and have nothing
29
I'm sorry Lenora. I've donated to the Red Cross and supplies to local drives in my area. I wish there was more I could do for you and I hope that someone in Houston reads your post and can offer more direct help.
14
She is very grateful. We were chosen for this news story. God did bless her with a sister like me who would go above and beyond for her. Thank God for her CHURCH family as well. THat is why it is good to be grounded in the Lord.
12
I wonder if I am the only one who noticed that the NYT is so hesitant to give any credit to President Trump for his leadership in this horrible situation.
As our thoughts and prayers go out to all affected by this worst calamity in our lifetime, as far as a hurricane related matter is concerned.
How much worse the loss of life would have been without the coordination of Federal, State and Local authorities. And, of course this begins at the top.
The tragic circumstances were kept to a minimum because of the advance planning.
Let's give President Trump his just due.
As our thoughts and prayers go out to all affected by this worst calamity in our lifetime, as far as a hurricane related matter is concerned.
How much worse the loss of life would have been without the coordination of Federal, State and Local authorities. And, of course this begins at the top.
The tragic circumstances were kept to a minimum because of the advance planning.
Let's give President Trump his just due.
20
Trump planned to cut FEMA and spoke about the big crowd at his rally. Watch TV, read the news, and get real. This is not about the NYT.
16
What exactly has Trump done to earn your plaudits? He and his EPA boss are attempting to gut environmental laws and regulations, defund disaster relief agencies, and , have pulled us out of the Paris climate accord. Does showing up in a stupid white hat and golf pants earn Trump his just due. How low can we set the bar for our child president?
10
but what about A) the $400 Million cut to FEMA in the new budget? and B) announcing the Arpaio pardon during Harvey coverage because the ratings would be higher? The heroic acts of everyone on the ground were because of training and intelligence of the people committed to doing their jobs, and the kindness of the many heroes who volunteered to save the lives of others.
9
The tribulations of those affected by the storm will continue long after the story has left the news cycle. When the emergency aid has left, some new crisis absorbs us and they have grown ever more weary and frustrated they will then be in the second phase of need (the first being, of course, immediate rescue.) Sadly they will be then pretty much on their own. It would be a feel good thing to say we will all stick by them, but we won't. They will have to do the heavy lifting themselves. The history of such events shows this to be the case and underscores the importance of being to some extent prepared for those events we hope will never happen. Does one have the right insurance? Is there a household or business inventory with photos, to prove what has been lost? Have you thought about where you would go in case of a fire or flood? Would a friend or relative take you in? Have you asked them? Do you know exactly which heirlooms and documents you would try to save if possible? Are they accessible? Whose job would it be to take charge of the dog and cat? Typically there isn't time to figure all this out when disaster strikes. A little forethought can make all the difference later. I speak from experience.
35
My god, what horrible things nature can rend on humans.
Torrid flood and fire and mud slide and earthquake and fire and drought and wind and rain and tsunami...
None of which we are completely able to defend ourselves against, which makes us realize our frailty against the powers that nature can bring against us at any moment.
And what blessings she can bring - bright sun and calm rain and soft winds and fertile soils, blessings from nature and a loving universe.
Are we responsible for any of natures vagaries? Do they reign on righteous and evil alike? Do we call down the wrath of nature on each other because of out behavior, or does nature visit her vagaries on all of us equally as residents of earth?
Are we so arrogant that we think nature behaves based on the behavior of one species?
Torrid flood and fire and mud slide and earthquake and fire and drought and wind and rain and tsunami...
None of which we are completely able to defend ourselves against, which makes us realize our frailty against the powers that nature can bring against us at any moment.
And what blessings she can bring - bright sun and calm rain and soft winds and fertile soils, blessings from nature and a loving universe.
Are we responsible for any of natures vagaries? Do they reign on righteous and evil alike? Do we call down the wrath of nature on each other because of out behavior, or does nature visit her vagaries on all of us equally as residents of earth?
Are we so arrogant that we think nature behaves based on the behavior of one species?
4
Well, we certainly know, at that very least that our horribly destructive species has done immeasurable damage to the nature that you claim is so impervious. Let's talk about the many (13, I believe) Superfund sites - those areas devastatingly polluted by mankind - which have destroyed the local environment and are now underwater (and therefore threaten life of humans and other species as the water carries the contamination).
Ler's talk about the unbeatable air in so many cities (improved in the US thanks to the now-threatened EPA regulations. Millions suffer impairment and death.
Let's talk nuclear explosions - this man made threat has devastated your holy 'nature', and now is threatened again.
There are so many examples - up to and including our ongoing alteration of climate patterns.
Please go learn something.
Ler's talk about the unbeatable air in so many cities (improved in the US thanks to the now-threatened EPA regulations. Millions suffer impairment and death.
Let's talk nuclear explosions - this man made threat has devastated your holy 'nature', and now is threatened again.
There are so many examples - up to and including our ongoing alteration of climate patterns.
Please go learn something.
7
'Nature is not the great mother who bore us all. She is our creation' Oscar Wilde. There is no mind or purpose behind nature, nobody to take offense at our behavior. There is only an automatic feedback system, albeit a very complex one. This does not mean that it's a good idea to pave over wetlands or dump plastic in the ocean. But I don't need to believe that there is a benevolent domestic spirit in my house in order not to empty a garbage bag onto the kitchen floor.
3
Cathy! Why the anger, the diatribe? I'm on your side, but if anything were to turn me, it would be your response to my comment.
I have been to, an and helped clean up Superfund sites, have you exposed yourself? I have drafted legislation that was passed to clean up the environment. Have you?
Go do something.
I have been to, an and helped clean up Superfund sites, have you exposed yourself? I have drafted legislation that was passed to clean up the environment. Have you?
Go do something.
1
Getting back some semblance of physical, and emotional safety , and normal life is critical. We lived in an area that for some reason after Sandy was the last to get electricity ..... heat, it was bitter cold during that time and people were beginning to lose it. So it's important that many states have crews down there to get things online. We were fortunate and had very little damage and could go back to our homes. Many were not and so clearly in Texas many thousands if not hundreds of thousands are going to be away from their houses and homes for years. This sounds weird but in some cases they can turn it into an adventure and move to a different area or even state
8
Well, now for a little different view..
I pray for all the people affected by Harvey's rain
I pray they will have the good sense to realize there are some places people just shouldn't live
I pray that Houston authorities will be held accountable for their failure to do proper land use planning
I pray that more people become aware of the fact that Texas created a dual track court system simply so they could carry out executions quicker
I pray that people become aware of how federal gov't flood assistance is part of the plan people in flood zones use to build newer and bigger homes after each flood
I pray that people will heed this obvious warning..
But I know my prays will most certainly go unheeded in the quest of the almighty dollar.
Fortunately, there are better countries to raise children
I pray for all the people affected by Harvey's rain
I pray they will have the good sense to realize there are some places people just shouldn't live
I pray that Houston authorities will be held accountable for their failure to do proper land use planning
I pray that more people become aware of the fact that Texas created a dual track court system simply so they could carry out executions quicker
I pray that people become aware of how federal gov't flood assistance is part of the plan people in flood zones use to build newer and bigger homes after each flood
I pray that people will heed this obvious warning..
But I know my prays will most certainly go unheeded in the quest of the almighty dollar.
Fortunately, there are better countries to raise children
10
"Fortunately, there are better countries to raise children" Great! Go move to one of the "better countries"! Now! Take Cher, and all the other Hollywood Lefties who SWORE they would emigrate to Canada when Trump became President. Go to some loving country full of compassion and opportunity which has wonderful social benefits. How about Somalia? Sudan? Syria? Morocco? Egypt? Venezuela the socialist workers paradise? I pick Venezuela for you. The Government has taken over all the private industry, they have free health care, they have generous social benefits, lots of toilet paper and all the food anyone can eat because Socialism is the best system on Earth. How soon can you leave for a "better country"?
5
Few, if any, activities are more absurd and useless than praying to make believe deities. But then it's a lot cheaper than doing something that might actually help. http://www.godisimaginary.com
2
Capitalism caused this worldwide environmental mess. And the USA has led the destruction of this planet. Learn something.
4
The public religiosity of Americans vs Canadians is quite marked. However, it appears that the story that someone refused supplies from Quebec but requested just prayers may be apocraphyl.Quebec is very secular since the QUIET REVOLUTION years ago which saw the end of the control of Quebec society by the Roman Catholic Church.
What is amazing is that such a technologically advanced nation as the USA appears to have done virtually nothing to avoid a flooding disaster such as that caused by storm Harvey although it is evident that it was well known that such a disaster was a certainty. My dear departed Mom always said.."God helps those who help themselves." Maybe more concrete plans and actions would do more to avoid catastrophic disaster than prayers.
What is amazing is that such a technologically advanced nation as the USA appears to have done virtually nothing to avoid a flooding disaster such as that caused by storm Harvey although it is evident that it was well known that such a disaster was a certainty. My dear departed Mom always said.."God helps those who help themselves." Maybe more concrete plans and actions would do more to avoid catastrophic disaster than prayers.
12
Gee, nice to kick a country when it's down! True, the US needs to radically rethink its flood prevention, infrastructure, but first things first.
Canada has coastline too; with climate change, you never know where a storm may hit. I seem to remember sending funds to the Canadian Red Cross last year for bad fires in Western Canada. Rather than condemn, perhaps you could reciprocate?
Canada has coastline too; with climate change, you never know where a storm may hit. I seem to remember sending funds to the Canadian Red Cross last year for bad fires in Western Canada. Rather than condemn, perhaps you could reciprocate?
2
We have....contributions were requested of our Federal govt. by your govt. They were sent almost immediately. I believe some personnel have been sent also. Plus a private organization has gone down to rescue a large no.of dogs. Previous pm steven harper blocked urban rescue teams participating in disaster relief. They were anxious to gain experience.
2
I think the point that @bear was trying to make (buried in all the anti-religious stuff) was that a Texan public official turned down aid from Canada and said that Texas only needed prayers. It wasn't just extremely insulting to a country that has been an ally of the United States for our entire history (150 years and counting!) but also very stupid. The public official was probably sitting in a warm, comfortable office when he turned Canada's help down and didn't give a single thought to the millions of Texans who would be grateful for it.
Canada has 'reciprocated', over and over and over again. There's even a musical on Broadway about our 'reciprocation'. We're always there for our American friends, even when they don't have the common courtesy to be appreciative.
Canada has 'reciprocated', over and over and over again. There's even a musical on Broadway about our 'reciprocation'. We're always there for our American friends, even when they don't have the common courtesy to be appreciative.
2
While this is clearly a tragedy for all affected , there is a stark demographic in the shelters and emergency refuge centers. As an emergency medical provider who has been mainly in Houston and Beaumont since last Friday, I can't help but see further evidence of racial inequity in situations like this. The cruel- and continuing- history of racism in this country speaks especially loudly during times like this.
29
So who would be in a shelter in San Francisco?
3
Not everything has to do with racism or racial disparity. This hurricane flooded a lot of peoples' homes, people who were black and people who were white.
2
No small irony that changes to the earth's climate caused by fossil fuel emissions were to blame for the tragedy which unfolded last week, laying to waste a city fossil fuels built from the ground up.
May Houston's economy come back stronger, with thriving tech, biomedical, aerospace, and healthcare industries leading the way.
May Texas politicians learn a hard lesson about the impacts of climate change, and how fossil fuel combustion is directly, undeniably responsible.
And may the oil industry die quickly and mercifully, before the waste it leaves behind kills the rest of us. We don't have time.
May Houston's economy come back stronger, with thriving tech, biomedical, aerospace, and healthcare industries leading the way.
May Texas politicians learn a hard lesson about the impacts of climate change, and how fossil fuel combustion is directly, undeniably responsible.
And may the oil industry die quickly and mercifully, before the waste it leaves behind kills the rest of us. We don't have time.
15
The saga of Harvey has become, well, soggy. It has been allowed to commandeer the News Cycle at a time when critical events are unfolding in other spheres. So here's my quick pitch to reclaim a sense of focus -- Trump must be removed from office, Pence must not be allowed to succeed him, and North Korea must be eliminated once and for all time with a pre-emptive attack. If a drone attack directed precisely at the person of Kim Jong Un as he stands clapping his hands at a missile launch would suffice, that would of course be more humane. However, at this late juncture we probably don't have that option.
Yes, as some of you have probably figured out by now, my views are eclectic.
Yes, as some of you have probably figured out by now, my views are eclectic.
7
As a non-believer, I can never understand the point of praying for help from the higher power that caused the harm in the first place.
25
No one should have to go through this alone. Thanks for this heart rendering story that motivated me to give again. I hope and pray that all Americans open their hearts and wallets to support our fellow Americans in the south who have been storm wracked and buffeted beyond comprehension. My God bless and keep in his guidance Kris Ford-Amofa's family and all families that have been flooded in all the southern states.
9
Richard Dawkins distilled the attributes of the god of the bible succinctly:
"It is arguably the most unpleasant character in all fiction: jealous and proud of it, a petty, unjust, unforgiving control freak; a vindictive, bloodthirsty ethnic cleanser; a misogynistic, homophobic, racist, infanticidal, genocidal, filicidal, pestilential, megalomaniacal, sadomasochistic capriciously malevolent bully."
That is no joke, any scholar of the Old Testament will immediately recognize these characteristics in the first three chapters.
It's a peculiar insanity of our species that some of us think it's a good idea to even acknowledge, much less worship such a monster.
"It is arguably the most unpleasant character in all fiction: jealous and proud of it, a petty, unjust, unforgiving control freak; a vindictive, bloodthirsty ethnic cleanser; a misogynistic, homophobic, racist, infanticidal, genocidal, filicidal, pestilential, megalomaniacal, sadomasochistic capriciously malevolent bully."
That is no joke, any scholar of the Old Testament will immediately recognize these characteristics in the first three chapters.
It's a peculiar insanity of our species that some of us think it's a good idea to even acknowledge, much less worship such a monster.
3
The people criticizing the Trumps apparently were not aware that they spent five hours in Houston today handing out dinners and talking to victims at a shelter. The people were scrambling to get a photo with the president surprisingly since the vast majority of folks voted for Hillary Clinton. Outside a Church the president was loading cars and trucks with cases of water while chatting with Red Cross volunteers. The president and First Lady were very involved with the citizens of Houston who appeared happy to see them take the time and show concern for those who were suffering due to this disaster. Pictures do not lie.
The shelter had many Republicans but there were no Democrats in sight. Where were they?
The shelter had many Republicans but there were no Democrats in sight. Where were they?
7
It was nice that you asked to read all the party membership cards of those helping in order to state there were no Democrats there!
5
How nice that you asked to read the party membership cards of the relief workers so that you could accurately proclaim there were no Democrats present!
4
Why so grim? Didn't the President say: "it's been a wonderful thing to watch"?
13
He also said, in the midst of an empathy- less photo op at the shelter: "have a good time"(!).
Instead, we all should be opening our hearts, believing, and demonstrating, that we are Stronger Together.
Instead, we all should be opening our hearts, believing, and demonstrating, that we are Stronger Together.
11
I don't get the impression that there will be any meaningful change in how they build buildings or use their land in Houston.
I think that city and region are in love with the cycles of boom and bust and I think that they will look at this disaster as a business opportunity for demolition companies, mold remediation companies, and car scrapping companies and car dealerships alike.
There should probably be some special database for every car registered in the disaster zone so that they get flagged as likely flood damaged and they don't wind up on a lot in Tucson with a dozen air fresheners hanging from the rear view.
I think that city and region are in love with the cycles of boom and bust and I think that they will look at this disaster as a business opportunity for demolition companies, mold remediation companies, and car scrapping companies and car dealerships alike.
There should probably be some special database for every car registered in the disaster zone so that they get flagged as likely flood damaged and they don't wind up on a lot in Tucson with a dozen air fresheners hanging from the rear view.
10
Check the bar coding HIGH WATER LEVEL stickers on the door.posts of cars post flood. We avoided post Hurricane Irene and other post flood cars this way.
1
Why is the Federal gov't getting all the credit for the Harvey response?
If private citizens hadn't undertaken rescue efforts on their own, people would still be drowning in flooded homes.
Why not call FEMA out and give credit where it's due?
If private citizens hadn't undertaken rescue efforts on their own, people would still be drowning in flooded homes.
Why not call FEMA out and give credit where it's due?
16
Duck Dynasty even rowed over from Louisiana. I couldn't make this up.
1
August began with a country divided by incendiary political rhetoric. August ended with our grieving together for Houston
2
If we multiply this family's situation by a million in Houston and add the other cities on the water, world wide.... and we willl have a glimpse of what's coming.
One family at a time must relocate to higher ground, world wide. There's no point in throwing good money after bad.
We are not meant to live on the rising and falling seas influenced by flooding.
Flood insurance would not cover a community wide collapse.
And that's just one reaction to warming, the reaction to living by the sea where warming will drive the shoreline inward till it rises 500 to 600 feet, That will do it for a while.
One family at a time must relocate to higher ground, world wide. There's no point in throwing good money after bad.
We are not meant to live on the rising and falling seas influenced by flooding.
Flood insurance would not cover a community wide collapse.
And that's just one reaction to warming, the reaction to living by the sea where warming will drive the shoreline inward till it rises 500 to 600 feet, That will do it for a while.
13
I have a feeling that huge amounts of effort and money will be spent making everything just as vulnerable next time round.
Houston needs zoning laws. rebuilt and new homes should be built on concrete piles at least one meter higher than sea level.
Finally, Texans need to understand that politicians who refuse to help other victims such as the Texan politicians who refused to vote for the victims of Hurricane Sandy, are not for reelection. If you live on a floodplain in a hurricane state - empathy for others is a requirement.
Houston needs zoning laws. rebuilt and new homes should be built on concrete piles at least one meter higher than sea level.
Finally, Texans need to understand that politicians who refuse to help other victims such as the Texan politicians who refused to vote for the victims of Hurricane Sandy, are not for reelection. If you live on a floodplain in a hurricane state - empathy for others is a requirement.
15
As much as I might think Trump is not up to the task of being President, or that he was play acting actually caring what happens to these people, I pray they got a sense of hope from his visit. As someone involved in mental health I remember the emotional toll Katrina had years after that flood. So many people reached their breaking point after the cameras were gone and fighting against the elements or just life as they then found it became too much.
I pray for this family and many like them all over Houston and hope my donation does something to bring them a little peace as they enter what could only be called a long dark tunnel. I'm sure the people who went through Sandy know exactly what I mean...
I pray for this family and many like them all over Houston and hope my donation does something to bring them a little peace as they enter what could only be called a long dark tunnel. I'm sure the people who went through Sandy know exactly what I mean...
42
Yes, Cherrie, I am a Sandy Victim,and I know just what you mean. I'm not the same person whom I was before Sandy. Just as I'd thought I'd overcome the trauma of Sandy,(as much as I ever could ) along came Harvey, which re-triggered my trauma.The victim blaming comments are particularly distressing. I've exhausted myself trying to respond to the victim-blaming comments, as I did after Sandy,and have put in for a cancellation of my NYT subscription, though there is no way of getting from the coverage.
1
My thoughts and prayers are with the Ford-Amofa family and the many others as they navigate rebuilding everything. I read this article with tears as they worked hard to purchase their home and now natural disaster strikes. Thankfully this family remained intact with everyone healthy and whole. I also think of the families who are separated from their loved ones, singles and those who lost loved ones. I certainly pray 45 and Congress will think of hardworking families such as these when approving aid and funding. This is no time for partisan politics and pettiness... it is time to do what is right.
50
I certainly share your sentiments, but I gag every time I encounter the insipid phrase "thoughts and prayers." It is a cliché, it is a platitude, and, as has been said before in another context, "God isn't fixing this." To which I can only add that the fictional "God" which we humans have perversely created whole-cloth out of our febrile imaginations, is just like us -- spiteful, sadistic, vindictive, and narcissistic. The monotheistic "God" is no less anthropomorphic than the gods of ancient Greece or Rome, and no less a work of collective fiction.
11
Well meaning, but thoughts and prayers aren't going to help anybody. Call your representative and tell them you want our government to help the victims of the hurricane.
11
I agree with other commenters here. I want to "adopt" a Houston family and help them recover.
48
Its the truth i have 5 kids lost my house & cars.during harvey.ive been in 3 different shelters trying to just get closer to my job 2 be able to go to work because Fema is not respnding.this is so hearbreaking..today was the 1st day we was able to even wash our hair.and theres still water in my home because we was a mile from where they released the reservoirs we just want to go back 2 work and school...im praying 4 every1 affectex by this because were getting no help and nowhere
6
Lenora,
You or a friend/family member can start a GoFundMe account entitled with your name. The GoFundMe account can then be distributed via Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, etc, and verbally. This is a public forum so I cannot give out personal information. Go to the GoFundMe main page and follow the links to setting up an account. Keep calling FEMA! The FEMA website has an APPLY FOR ASSISTANCE if you click on the FEMA main page under Hurricane Harvey. Godspeed!
You or a friend/family member can start a GoFundMe account entitled with your name. The GoFundMe account can then be distributed via Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, etc, and verbally. This is a public forum so I cannot give out personal information. Go to the GoFundMe main page and follow the links to setting up an account. Keep calling FEMA! The FEMA website has an APPLY FOR ASSISTANCE if you click on the FEMA main page under Hurricane Harvey. Godspeed!
A "road map" of tasks - an APP that takes you from one task to the next, with lots of drop downs containing phone numbers, emails and contacts, could be created so that all those making claims and needing assistance had a trail to follow.
This APP could contain the forms in order of importance and a response (you've filed!) that could be saved. forwarded and printed out for one's records. It contains contacts for ordering trash and garbage pickup along with housing. It has school info and doctors names if people have to live in a new community. Let's put our computer specialists and coders together with FEMA and get this done!
These poor victims deserve to have a "one-stop" shop for help.
This APP could contain the forms in order of importance and a response (you've filed!) that could be saved. forwarded and printed out for one's records. It contains contacts for ordering trash and garbage pickup along with housing. It has school info and doctors names if people have to live in a new community. Let's put our computer specialists and coders together with FEMA and get this done!
These poor victims deserve to have a "one-stop" shop for help.
67
The new WH budget proposes $400 Million cut to FEMA, let's hope this situation will make it easier for Congress to say "NO". We need an effective, well organized FEMA more than ever.
13
The one million trump pledges from his own coffers won't even cover the costs of his trips to the region and his return trips to play golf. What a pointless charade.
137
I disagree. Pres. Trump is not obligated to donate anything. I think his donation is very generous. Now let's see how quickly the federal government can help these unfortunate people rebuild. That will be the real test.
And if Trump didn't go to the devastation you Liberals would be calling him heartless. Heads you win, tails he loses. Trump is doing his job.
2
Reply to fatso. For billionaire Trump to give a million dollars (assuming he really does give it in contrast to false brags in the past) is the same as the rest of us giving $5. each.
We are more generous, he certainly can afford to be. For him, it appears, it's a photo op, not a time to dig deep down and help.
We are more generous, he certainly can afford to be. For him, it appears, it's a photo op, not a time to dig deep down and help.
8
"His next door neighbor's leather couch was already bearded with white mold. When Yaw returned to clean up the house, he deiced he couldn't wait.
" ' You can already smell.he said. You don't know what you're breathing.You don't know what is in the house.' "
"So,without masks , he and a neighbor marked a line on the walls and started sawing away with wood-handled kitchen knives, Drywall crumbled like soggy meringue. They yanked out insulation, which dripped like wet wool,and through it in the front yard,"
Dear Hurricane Harvey Victims :
As a Superstorm Sandy Victim,I urge you to please refrain from cutting into ANYTHING without wearing a mask, and not just any mask but a N-95 mask, as recommended to me by the mitigation department of FEMA. at the DRC (Disaster Relief Center ) .
Cutting into affected sheetrock will release mold spores and other hazardous particulates into the air ,which will endanger your health .
.Currently,Amazon is selling TWENTY N-95 masks for as little $8,95. if you are unable to get to a store,or if local stores are out.
To those of you who want to help Hurricane Harvey Victims : Instead of making donations to charities, such as the Red Cross,which will likely never make it to Hurricane Harvey victims (Especially if the donations are to the Red Cross ) ,please consider donating supplies, such as N-95 masks, directly to the victims. which will ensure that the VICTIMS benefit from your generosity. Thank you.
" ' You can already smell.he said. You don't know what you're breathing.You don't know what is in the house.' "
"So,without masks , he and a neighbor marked a line on the walls and started sawing away with wood-handled kitchen knives, Drywall crumbled like soggy meringue. They yanked out insulation, which dripped like wet wool,and through it in the front yard,"
Dear Hurricane Harvey Victims :
As a Superstorm Sandy Victim,I urge you to please refrain from cutting into ANYTHING without wearing a mask, and not just any mask but a N-95 mask, as recommended to me by the mitigation department of FEMA. at the DRC (Disaster Relief Center ) .
Cutting into affected sheetrock will release mold spores and other hazardous particulates into the air ,which will endanger your health .
.Currently,Amazon is selling TWENTY N-95 masks for as little $8,95. if you are unable to get to a store,or if local stores are out.
To those of you who want to help Hurricane Harvey Victims : Instead of making donations to charities, such as the Red Cross,which will likely never make it to Hurricane Harvey victims (Especially if the donations are to the Red Cross ) ,please consider donating supplies, such as N-95 masks, directly to the victims. which will ensure that the VICTIMS benefit from your generosity. Thank you.
84
But to whom are people suppose to send these supplies ?
Who is accepting & distributing these supplies ?
Who is accepting & distributing these supplies ?
5
The Red Cross is a very good charity and spends 90 cents of every dollar on program expenses,
2
As a flood victim who is neither poor nor rich, I find most of the top comments here highly offensive to all the victims. Yes, Texas senators are hypocrites. Yes, the poor suffers most. But no matter which side of the spectrum you reside, no matter the victim is rich or poor, it is a natural disaster that brought suffering to all victims, beyond measure.
Political ladened comments in a sad story like this is really cruel.
Political ladened comments in a sad story like this is really cruel.
40
Don't let that be your takeaway from this. The other day I was in a police station in a midsize town in Massachusetts. The area for donations to Harvey victims was overflowing. Diapers, formula, Depends, blankets and clothes with the labels on, Honey Nut Cheerios. The critics are loud, the supporters do their part quietly.
57
Try not to let it bother you.... the overwhelming majority of people know when to check their politics at the door. But unfortunately there will always be some who just can't resist a dig here and a jab here. It is heartening and inspiring to see the spirit and positive attitude being demonstrated by those of you dealing with this terrible crisis. We are watching closely and rooting for you!
7
I'm a New Englander and have never experienced this type of natural disaster and hopefully never will. That said, as a human being, a decent person and a fellow American, I don't give a hoot about the political leanings of the Harvey victims. I wish I could somehow personally help each and every one, but all I can do is donate, and I have. And most likely will again.
Unfortunately, there is a political aspect to this nightmare event, but I don't feel the survivors should be burdened with this type of discussionor action right now. This is something the rest of us can do. Let's all lean on our elected officials to make certain that Harvey's victims get the help they all deserve and quickly. My sincere hope is that all the funds donated are distributed as they were intended. My secondary hope is that fellow Texans demand better zoning laws and regulations that do not allow rebuilding in areas known to flood. Clearly those FEMA flood maps need to be redrawn....yesterday.
Unfortunately, there is a political aspect to this nightmare event, but I don't feel the survivors should be burdened with this type of discussionor action right now. This is something the rest of us can do. Let's all lean on our elected officials to make certain that Harvey's victims get the help they all deserve and quickly. My sincere hope is that all the funds donated are distributed as they were intended. My secondary hope is that fellow Texans demand better zoning laws and regulations that do not allow rebuilding in areas known to flood. Clearly those FEMA flood maps need to be redrawn....yesterday.
9
Here in Houston, the level of mental stress is very high on everyone right now for many reasons, but is improving rapidly. I am guessing the content of this article is about 2-3 days old. Things are improving rapidly. The sun is shining and people are bonding in new ways. I feel badly for this family and am trying to actively do my part as is my family in general. It is about giving money, time, labor, and donating basic necessities, the balance of which is different for all of us. Rental cars from all around the country are quickly arriving at all of the major rental companies. Car dealerships everywhere, want to repair your water damaged vehicles (water damaged interior materials need to be removed immediately) and offer to pay part of your deductible and give you a free loaner since they will have a guaranteed win with direct payment from the insurance companies. A few basic comments however. If you lived through Hurricane Rita, you know you have to have flood insurance. If you have a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder, whether via Lease or loan, you can afford flood insurance. For a 180,000 house, your cost will be about one month of a lease payment, and far lower than one month of a loan payment. Basic blocking and tackling. If its a problem, then you get a dealer certified 2014 Nissan Pathfinder that comes with a warranty, and voila - you have many thousands in your pocket. If you live in Houston, flood insurance is basic. I wish this family well. Resources abound.
26
"Car dealerships everywhere want to repair your damaged vehicle."
Don't let them do it ,Harvey Victims. Those water damaged vehicles should not be repaired.They should be destroyed. They are not safe to drive, and will not be.
Not long after Sandy, a number of cars that had been flooded ,burst into flames Eventually , a law was passed in New York State which required that all affected vehicles be destroyed, so that car re-sellers could not pass the Sandy affected cars along to others.
Don't let them do it ,Harvey Victims. Those water damaged vehicles should not be repaired.They should be destroyed. They are not safe to drive, and will not be.
Not long after Sandy, a number of cars that had been flooded ,burst into flames Eventually , a law was passed in New York State which required that all affected vehicles be destroyed, so that car re-sellers could not pass the Sandy affected cars along to others.
7
Yes you are correct in most instances. Good point! And most of the times an insurance company will total the car. The car goes off to the salvage yard and is stripped of any usable parts. If a car was only in a few inches of water that didn't get into the electronics, sensors, transmission, pistons, oil or wiring it really can be repaired. If it was in salt water however, rust and corrosion is a real possibility as time proceeds no matter how good the repair might be. If in fresh water, the car is much better off. I am curious about the New York state regulation - when it says a car must be destroyed, what does that mean? Where does the leftover destroyed car go? A landfill? A salvage yard? Just curious.
3
I get your Texan anti-consumer protection (read: government) jab, but salvage vehicles can be fully recycled. But for the record, the NY law (it's also law in other states) mandates that flooded vehicles cannot be sold to consumers.
2
"Have a good time." Trump's advice. Really? Does he mean enjoy taking your ruined possessions to the curb? Or washing with bleach? Dealing with no running water? Yeah, have a good time, y'all.
88
Texas politicians boastfully talk about how "RESILIENCE" Texans are and how they are going to "REBUILD" Houston and other areas. Someone should tell them that RESILIENCY means that they can build on their OWN without any federal $$$. Anyone can rebuild with free $$$. Don't let them spread this nonsense. Its time to acknowledge all the failures of unplanned/unregulated growth and accept how vulnerable the Texans are. If you are resilience then don't ask for any help. Show your resiliency!
I am all for federal assistance but stop this resiliency nonsense.
I am all for federal assistance but stop this resiliency nonsense.
13
Your joking right? Resilience is getting up and getting through the day when you have lost EVERYTHING. This isn't free $$$, these are our tax dollars which I am glad are being used to support those in dire straits.
50
"At 9:14 p.m. Sunday, Kris posted on Facebook" "We're going to have to make a move cause the water is coming through the floors and under the base boards like a river !!"
"Around noon the next day, they threw a few clothes and papers into backpacks. The family tried to gather strength, 'Jesus remove this fear from me to actually get on it ," Kris wrote to her 378 Facebook friends." And then, they set off through the flooded street."
I am a Superstorm Sandy victim. I can't even conceived of having stopped to post on Facebook while the water was climbing my stairs.
Something is seriously amiss when someone takes the time to post on Facebook when "water is coming though the doors and under the baseboard like a river."
When the immediate criss passes.I hope that someone in this country will take it upon himself/herself to address the issues of social medial addiction, which has apparently reached the point where lives are at stake.
"Around noon the next day, they threw a few clothes and papers into backpacks. The family tried to gather strength, 'Jesus remove this fear from me to actually get on it ," Kris wrote to her 378 Facebook friends." And then, they set off through the flooded street."
I am a Superstorm Sandy victim. I can't even conceived of having stopped to post on Facebook while the water was climbing my stairs.
Something is seriously amiss when someone takes the time to post on Facebook when "water is coming though the doors and under the baseboard like a river."
When the immediate criss passes.I hope that someone in this country will take it upon himself/herself to address the issues of social medial addiction, which has apparently reached the point where lives are at stake.
20
DJS
I agree about social media addiction, but that's not what was happening here.
In this case posting on FB was probably the most efficient way to let as many family members and friends know that they were being forced to abandon their home. She also had no way of knowing when she'd be able to communicate again.
I agree about social media addiction, but that's not what was happening here.
In this case posting on FB was probably the most efficient way to let as many family members and friends know that they were being forced to abandon their home. She also had no way of knowing when she'd be able to communicate again.
92
PS. Sorry - of course I meant to write "to let as many family members and friends as possible know.....' - a small slip-up but I think my meaning got through.
(And to let colleagues, etc. know too of course.)
(And to let colleagues, etc. know too of course.)
4
It is a safety measure to let others know where you are, by any means, as you are setting off in a risky situation, it's good that internet and cell phones were still working and made it possible for people to communicate and assist each other.
10
The Amofa family's story is a story of hope and heartbreak. Undoubtedly, there are thousands and throusands more. The question is after the national media is gone and the politicians go back to D.C. will these people be forgotten, the way the people of Katrina and Sandy and of so many other events are relegated to the past? Or will city planners and law makers understand that this was not only an act of God, but a tragedy made worse by human intervention? For all of the families like the Amofa's whose lives have been forever changed, and for my own family, I can only hope that the lessons of these floods will be internalized by those who make public policy and some good will come from the sorrow Harvey wrought.
59
Big Oil runs Houston and while we are on the subject, all of Louisiana. Expect to get NOTHING done, not now, not in the future.
After British Petroleum polluted the Gulf of Mexico did the sale of "Gulf Shrimp" stop? No, those Corexit poisoned shrimp were and are still available.
We think we elect people who will fight for US but this is not the case. We are bringing people into office that are beholden to big business. They really don't need us. The only way we can fight back is by stopping to consuming the trash they produce.
After British Petroleum polluted the Gulf of Mexico did the sale of "Gulf Shrimp" stop? No, those Corexit poisoned shrimp were and are still available.
We think we elect people who will fight for US but this is not the case. We are bringing people into office that are beholden to big business. They really don't need us. The only way we can fight back is by stopping to consuming the trash they produce.
26
Please tell us all how you think the economy of Idaho could survive for a week without the products of Big Oil. Does the state's population live in high-density cities well served by electrically-powered public transitin turn powered by renewable energy sources?
2
'Quietly waiting' in Texas, one of the reasons it's taking longer than it could to switch over to renewable is precisely because government is bought and paid for by petroleum companies. Regulations and subsidies are tailor made to keep oil execs and investors wealthy and preventing renewables from gaining a foothold.; but I suspect you already know that.
4
I wonder what would Happen if people of means met with a catastrophe and see who comes out of the woodwork and how fast. And if it's a photo op, or do they hang around for the hard work. Open their doors without having to get shamed into it. Wait a minute, they don't live near chemical companies, refineries, in flood areas they just own them. And vote to have them built in neighborhoods other than their own.
19
"I wonder what would Happen if people of means met with a catastrophe and see who comes out of the woodwork and how fast.. Wait they don't live near chemical companies, refineries, in flood areas, they just own them "
You don't have to wonder, Eli. Just look up Superstorm Sandy.Tens of thousands, or possibly hundreds of thousands of "people with means " DO live in flood zones. Yes, we hang around for the hard work. Yes, we bail the water out of our homes, and drag out moldy sheetrock and life's possessions onto the curb, to join that of our neighbors of EVERY socioeconomic background. Yes, we struggle to re-build our lives and homes, though those of means can hire people to do SOME of the work later on.
You don't have to wonder, Eli. Just look up Superstorm Sandy.Tens of thousands, or possibly hundreds of thousands of "people with means " DO live in flood zones. Yes, we hang around for the hard work. Yes, we bail the water out of our homes, and drag out moldy sheetrock and life's possessions onto the curb, to join that of our neighbors of EVERY socioeconomic background. Yes, we struggle to re-build our lives and homes, though those of means can hire people to do SOME of the work later on.
14
If you lived in Houston rather than in North Carolina, you would know that flooding damaged and also destroyed homes in the two neighborhoods occupied by people who the greatest means of any resdients in this region: River Oaks and Memorial.
1
I have a feeling they'll make it though it will be so very hard. Intelligent, resourceful and kind people. I hope they are rewarded for all their efforts and will soon be out of this miserable situation. Bless all of you.
30
Climate change will continue to create more and more of these weather calamities. The only way to combat the impact of destructive weather is to build super infrastructure nationwide paid by an increase on the wealthy of the inheritance tax. The ancient Romans were able to pay for the needs of its soldiers with this type of tax and they ruled the world for a thousand years.
27
I am a native Houstonian who left many years ago for career reason. I have many tens of close relatives there; a brother, two sisters, and a raft of nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.
Blessedly, only one family had to evacuate near the Brazos,and their home was ultimately lightly damaged and not flooded.
The water stopped at the first course of bricks on my elder sister's home. Again not flooded, thanks be.
As many roads remain impassable even though flood waters are receding, most are unable to get to work and many businesses are struggling to reopen, I am proud of my many nephews and grandnephews who are volunteering to aid single elders with drywall removal and mop-up efforts as homes reemerge from the waters.
The test of a community is its response to adversity;I am gratified to see my birth city's high level of cooperation and grit, combined with few reports of looting or other predation.
Please pitch in if you are able. If not positioned to do so, please keep your hopes and best wishes in mind as stricken Texans work their way out of this mess.
Blessedly, only one family had to evacuate near the Brazos,and their home was ultimately lightly damaged and not flooded.
The water stopped at the first course of bricks on my elder sister's home. Again not flooded, thanks be.
As many roads remain impassable even though flood waters are receding, most are unable to get to work and many businesses are struggling to reopen, I am proud of my many nephews and grandnephews who are volunteering to aid single elders with drywall removal and mop-up efforts as homes reemerge from the waters.
The test of a community is its response to adversity;I am gratified to see my birth city's high level of cooperation and grit, combined with few reports of looting or other predation.
Please pitch in if you are able. If not positioned to do so, please keep your hopes and best wishes in mind as stricken Texans work their way out of this mess.
26
Texas devastated,
106 degrees in San Francisco,
Bihar devastated,
and Trump trumpets the imposture
that climate change is not real and not caused now
principally by humans.
That is a high crime, a high misdemeanor.
Impeach the dangerous climate denier NOW!!!!!!!!!
106 degrees in San Francisco,
Bihar devastated,
and Trump trumpets the imposture
that climate change is not real and not caused now
principally by humans.
That is a high crime, a high misdemeanor.
Impeach the dangerous climate denier NOW!!!!!!!!!
55
Belief is not science,on his part... or yours.
3
How about Exxon Mobil's part?
8
Trump hasn't changed the climate. It's been the people before him and all those that bemoan the way it use to be all the while doing their very best to destroy the planet, one person at a time. For example, how many of you use little water bottles every day? Have you any idea of the amount of trash you create for the environment? Please, start at home before you complain about presidents not doing enough.
8
I wonder how many people post Harvey are aware of this:
http://www.slate.com/blogs/moneybox/2017/08/28/right_before_harvey_trump...
http://www.slate.com/blogs/moneybox/2017/08/28/right_before_harvey_trump...
7
Please describe in detail exactly what measures would be effective in dealing with 50 inches of rain, 24.5 trillion gallons, in a 72 hour period.
You can't blame this on inadequate civil engineering. Hating Trump is not sufficient.
You can't blame this on inadequate civil engineering. Hating Trump is not sufficient.
13
No, Trump has nothing to do with it but Houston's lax attitude toward Code has. 30% of wetlands lost in about ten to fifteen years. Rampant growth. "If we don't do it, the growth will go to neighboring counties", this was/is the mantra of Houston.
Live in this sewer at your own peril. Perhaps now the government should declare ALL of Houston and suburbs a flood-prone area. Also, no longer give FEMA money to Houston or other coastal areas especial areas that have done nothing to combat flooding. New Orleans had a chance to better. But instead of making the Lower Nineth Ward a park it's been repopulate again,
Perhaps it is time to hold those who live in flood planes, natural or as in Houston created by man, to make so expensive to live that no one will live there. FEMA should NOT pay for foolish and careless living in/near areas that continuously flood. Enough already.
P.S. Those who cannot afford to live in the flood plane try to settle them away from the harm, if this is possible in Cement Houston, totally overbuilt, without regard to nature.
Live in this sewer at your own peril. Perhaps now the government should declare ALL of Houston and suburbs a flood-prone area. Also, no longer give FEMA money to Houston or other coastal areas especial areas that have done nothing to combat flooding. New Orleans had a chance to better. But instead of making the Lower Nineth Ward a park it's been repopulate again,
Perhaps it is time to hold those who live in flood planes, natural or as in Houston created by man, to make so expensive to live that no one will live there. FEMA should NOT pay for foolish and careless living in/near areas that continuously flood. Enough already.
P.S. Those who cannot afford to live in the flood plane try to settle them away from the harm, if this is possible in Cement Houston, totally overbuilt, without regard to nature.
23
It's nice to see that Idaho welcomes the ignorant. First of all, its "plain" not "plane". Second, the "wetland" loss was both partially replaced by detention, and in any case would have been irrelevant given the amount of water that fell. Houston flooded in 1935, long before anything was cemented. Third, if we're going to take the 300+ million people in the US and place them in locations devoid of major natural disaster risk, then let's do it -- where exactly in Idaho, Ohio and the Dakotas do you propose we relocate everyone from LA, SF, NY, Florida and the Gulf Coast.
1
A wonderful thing to watch would be Trump's resignation, asap.
26
Sadly, this is the normal for hurricane flooding recovery. There are still people in New Orleans who have not been able to rebuild-12 years later! The coasts of Texas and Louisiana have been turned into unstable swiss cheese by oil company pipeline and off shore building. Whether any real rebuilding that will survive the next hurricane is doubtful.
We really need to put our own citizens first, give up on endless foreign wars that do little more than destroy another country's homes and infrastructure and invest that money in our own damaged cities. Both countries will benefit.
We really need to put our own citizens first, give up on endless foreign wars that do little more than destroy another country's homes and infrastructure and invest that money in our own damaged cities. Both countries will benefit.
60
Maureen, you mentioned the oil companies and their power. "Thanks" to them nothing will be done. Example: Louisiana which is IN the pockets of big oil. Do you remember BP = British Petroleum, fouling the Gulf of Mexico? Now it is business as usual even though thanks to Corexit, the toxic substance banned elsewhere but used here the oil is kept down in the ocean, killing? Oh, Corexit kills as well. But you won't hear this from our government or the news. Do your own research. To date we refuse to purchase "Gulf Shrimp". We don't want tainted BP seafood!!!
14
Calling Harvey a "1 in 800 year storm" shows little regard or understanding for what we are really facing. It may have been a "1 in 800 year storm" in the cenozoic era, but now that we are in the anthropocene era, deadly storms like Harvey will be much more frequent. We should consider that before blindly reinvesting in disaster prone coastal cities and infrastructure.
53
Looks like it could be something we see within 5 years in smaller or larger scale, because the trends and projections for frequency and intensity of storms don't look favorable. Also milder storms than this, if timed closely, can also inflict much damage.
And yes, capacity and efficiency in disaster preparation and emergency response anywhere in the US are a form of "National Security".
And yes, capacity and efficiency in disaster preparation and emergency response anywhere in the US are a form of "National Security".
1
Ridiculous to lecture me about loss. I've nevet had anything to lose. Schoenberg, get off your pulpit. I have had the unfortunate convenience of being shunned by all your "wonderful" communites. Nice to see them helping us homeless for once, instead of arresting them. It shouldn't take a storm to get people to help o
People like that.
People like that.
1
Wonderfully written and detailed account of this family's plight. My heart truly breaks for them.
I've lived in Houston all my life but 6 years. I was born here. I've been very fortunate. I've never lived in a house that flooded nor had I been in a home that flooded until this one. Living in Houston, you get used to a certain amount of flooding risk. But this feels like a game changer. The scope is incredible. Everyone and I mean everyone, if they didn't personally experience flooding, has family members or friends who had to be rescued, are displaced, or flooded.
I helped a coworker strip the carpets and clean out her house this past week and I finally get it. I get how devastating it is. Even if you only get inches in your house, the water seems to touch and claim everything in the house. Your house, your home, becomes a vile, stinking heap that you can't bear to be in. It's disgusting and even dangerous. Your kids rooms, turned inside out, now suddenly show you just how vulnerable they are to life's twists and turns. But your life, little bits of which are still recognizable, are there too. So you stay trying to save what little you can.
I feel so incredibly fortunate, almost guiltily so with so many impacted. Houston has had its floods and its storms, but this event feels different. I think we are all now different. I'm not sure any of us who were here in Houston and SE Texas during Harvey will ever see a long, rainy day the same again.
I've lived in Houston all my life but 6 years. I was born here. I've been very fortunate. I've never lived in a house that flooded nor had I been in a home that flooded until this one. Living in Houston, you get used to a certain amount of flooding risk. But this feels like a game changer. The scope is incredible. Everyone and I mean everyone, if they didn't personally experience flooding, has family members or friends who had to be rescued, are displaced, or flooded.
I helped a coworker strip the carpets and clean out her house this past week and I finally get it. I get how devastating it is. Even if you only get inches in your house, the water seems to touch and claim everything in the house. Your house, your home, becomes a vile, stinking heap that you can't bear to be in. It's disgusting and even dangerous. Your kids rooms, turned inside out, now suddenly show you just how vulnerable they are to life's twists and turns. But your life, little bits of which are still recognizable, are there too. So you stay trying to save what little you can.
I feel so incredibly fortunate, almost guiltily so with so many impacted. Houston has had its floods and its storms, but this event feels different. I think we are all now different. I'm not sure any of us who were here in Houston and SE Texas during Harvey will ever see a long, rainy day the same again.
252
Governor Abbott and the Texas Legislature just wrapped up this bi-annual and special session with misguided focus on such things as a thankfully doomed transgender bathroom bill and oh yes, of the 700 new bills that went into effect on September 1st is a new law criminalizing bestiality. That's just what we need! This when they could be focusing on flood control and zoning issues. They could make it possible for people to know what chemicals are stored in their communities (see Crosby, TX)...and so much more...sad...
61
It is too soon - people are traumatized and terrified and just trying to get through the coming days. But, your point is valid - the issues debated in Austin this past year did little or nothing to improve the lives of Texas citizens. And I hope that we Texans will remember this as the election cycle begins next year.
6
Start with Big Oil Companies each donating one billion dollars to rebuild Houston, starting with the Koch Brothers&Exxon Mobil;For these two companies 1 billion is pocket change;Recall the recent news that Exxon Mobil knew that fossil fuel caused climate change 40 years ago from their own scientists on staff,&they hid that information, &continued to lie&deny the fact that fossil fuel causes climate change;Storms like Harvey are the result of climate change because the water temperatures of the Gulf continue to rise;Oil companies have gotten corporate welfare for decades;They use their enormous amounts of money to donate to congressmen who will fight against regulations on fossil fuel;thanks to them we have the absurd CitizensUnited Ruling that corp. are people&can spend unlimited $$;Koch Brothers give huge $$ to congressmen IF they agree NOT to do anything that will cause fossil fuel any $$;that means no regulations;so it is no surprise that every GOP denies climate change,they got huge donations to buy their opinion;Every oil company should donate a billion to Houston&every GOP congressman should donate a million to Houston because they all got money to deny climate change&to fight regulations;Harvey was caused by climate change&the moronic fight against regulations that ultimately are there to protect people from the unrestricted greed&disgraceful lack of good corporate citizenship from oil companies;Recall that big oil killed the electric car in 1994,the EV1.
51
If you had to evacuate in front of Harvey in your EV 1, you wouldn't make it to the city limits from town center, evven though its capacity to carry your treasured goods is near zero.
And do you really want to ford salt water flooding in your Tesla, with 600 volt underfloor Lithium-ion battery pack?
I'll give you the benefit of the doubt on sincerity.
The sort of preparatory thinking it takes to survive a hurricane, not so much.
And do you really want to ford salt water flooding in your Tesla, with 600 volt underfloor Lithium-ion battery pack?
I'll give you the benefit of the doubt on sincerity.
The sort of preparatory thinking it takes to survive a hurricane, not so much.
1
Yes, but the people we elect are corrupt. They do not serve our interests but are paid off by big business. How to stop this? I don't have an answer, but perhaps you do?
11
Apparently a Tesla is built like a boat and you could ford a river in it!
2
Time for TX to stop being a third world state, and join the rest of us by writing themselves some regulations and put some real thought into land development. It's rather childish to insist on so much "independence" that they put themselves at risk over and over again, expecting the rest of us to bail them out both literally and figuratively every time. Insurance companies usually only allow you to rebuild the same house twice before they refuse to insure it a third time without flood modifications or condemning it and asking you to move to higher ground. The government will soon follow suit, voters are going to get pretty tired of paying the same folks over and over and over again.
53
We Texans always appreciate advice from New Yorkers.
12
That same advice could come from a resident of almost any state, county, or city that has strict building and environmental regulations and zoning codes. It just seems so shocking to many of us that Houston lacks zoning codes and common sense regulations.
But - we are also shocked at the suffering we see in Houston. Our finger pointing is accompanied by a great deat of sympathy (at least mine is). These stories of individuals are tear jerkers. I wish this family the best in getting back on their feet.
But - we are also shocked at the suffering we see in Houston. Our finger pointing is accompanied by a great deat of sympathy (at least mine is). These stories of individuals are tear jerkers. I wish this family the best in getting back on their feet.
32
I bet you won't be so sarcastic when New Yorkers are offering you money to rebuild.
13
I would love to hear what went into deciding which family the reporter would shadow through them early days of recovery. Out of the vast, suffering multitudes, why this family?
5
It's the family who will tell their story, allow pictures and allow their names to be used. Not everyone will cooperate.
12
The family featured here is only one of tens of thousands. I suppose the squeaky wheel gets the grease?
Why not this family ?
3
Roll the dice, and sometimes they come up snake eyes.
Broken homes with mortgages will make bankruptcy lawyers a lot of money.
Broken homes with mortgages will make bankruptcy lawyers a lot of money.
4
The July 2016 census figures for Harris County estimate a population of 4.59 million. Tragically 36 lives were lost. There are 1.75 million housing units. Less than 10% are flooded. Even after 50 inches of rain fell.
Please stop writing of our homes and businesses and community as nothing more than a "wetland" as one commenter described it.
This event is epic and tragic and some homes should perhaps not be rebuilt but some of NYT readers do not know what the heck they are talking about!
Please stop writing of our homes and businesses and community as nothing more than a "wetland" as one commenter described it.
This event is epic and tragic and some homes should perhaps not be rebuilt but some of NYT readers do not know what the heck they are talking about!
14
@Diane Please don't discourage Northeasterners from giving us advice - they're much wiser than us. Even if they've never been here, they still are better informed about what we need. Remember, they only have our best interest in mind.
5
Diane, I understand why you're frustrated now that everyone thinks they're experts on Houston, but also bear in mind that the federal government will be on the hook for at least $100B in aid, probably far more when you factor in all the other indirect costs. Then there's all the money that will pour in from private donations through aid groups. Plus, we really don't know what the environmental costs will be with all the chemical plants and Superfund sites in the mix.
We're all in this together, and like it or not, Houston won't recover without a lot of help from US taxpayers and US charitable donors. So, I would suggest not automatically discounting critics and naysayers who think, perhaps, Houston needs to rethink the way it does business. This will happen again, as sure as the sun will rise tomorrow. What if it happens again next month or next year?
We're all in this together, and like it or not, Houston won't recover without a lot of help from US taxpayers and US charitable donors. So, I would suggest not automatically discounting critics and naysayers who think, perhaps, Houston needs to rethink the way it does business. This will happen again, as sure as the sun will rise tomorrow. What if it happens again next month or next year?
15
Houston has no building code. that was part of the problem.
according to U.S,. geological survey- from the Houston chronical- Houston's grounds have been sinking over 10-12 feet since the 1920'
Furthermore, this process is still going on around Houston just like
Louisiana.
according to U.S,. geological survey- from the Houston chronical- Houston's grounds have been sinking over 10-12 feet since the 1920'
Furthermore, this process is still going on around Houston just like
Louisiana.
12
The mere idea of trying to phone any large organization with their phone trees after something like the hurricane! My best wishes.
27
I'd have preferred submitting a comment to the column about Trump's second visit to the region. However the NYT, perhaps wisely, didn't allow any. By now even the 31% must recognize this man is in no way empathetic. That's because empathy is absent in sociopathic personalities. Many of those affected are suffering immeasurably but as fast as Trump is concerned, he's doing a bang up job and everyone loves him. Right! Wake up Trump(s).
41
Why allow that charlatan to distract you from the real suffering in the wake of this disaster?
In New York City Playwright Dr. Larry Myers Professor at St John s University and Director of The Playwrights Sanctuary has packed and is coming to Houston. His theater foundation helps new and younger dramatists organize plays on LGBTQIA issues and human rights. Dr. Myers was a post Katrina and Post Sandy volunteer. He penned a new stage work
"Houston Future Atlantis"
to have done to raise bucks.
"Houston Future Atlantis"
to have done to raise bucks.
5
They'll probably need dump trucks, to haul away all the money that's going to bring in.
6
I'm really surprised to hear that some people are still having a difficult time.
According to Trump everyone's happy with how things are going...
According to Trump everyone's happy with how things are going...
51
He's the greatest GOP embarrassment in about 40 years. They deserve the consequences of his actions and inaction.
7
Be nice. Nobody deserves this. You might be next.
14
All Trump said was that people were happy that they survived -- the loss of life was relatively low for this kind of event. The most important thing in this article is that every one of the Amofa family SURVIVED. They are young & healthy, they will rebuilt their lives.
Trump did not say "people were happy they were victims of a tragic event". Stop twisting stuff just to make biased, partisan political comments.
Trump did not say "people were happy they were victims of a tragic event". Stop twisting stuff just to make biased, partisan political comments.
4
There are 1000s of families like this who haven't a clue on how to move forward.
First priorities being lodging, food and transportation means resources...assuming there are any...are already exhausted.
Eighty percent are without flood insurance and desperately reliant upon FEMA (who may take years to process claims) to make them whole.
I propose the following be considered in order to mitigate issues relating to children.
Governmental vouchers can be provided in order to foster Harvey children for an unlimited time or until Houston can once again be back on its feet.
Public schools all over the country would be asked to accept 100 or more students and to find families to foster them.
Families willing to foster children would be reimbursed via monthly stipends and tax write-offs.
This too would apply to learning institutions.
Public and private industry willing to help would also receive exemptions.
But there is a caveat...
That effective immediately environmental studies, urban planning and climate change be made primary to all HS, college and university core curriculum.
First priorities being lodging, food and transportation means resources...assuming there are any...are already exhausted.
Eighty percent are without flood insurance and desperately reliant upon FEMA (who may take years to process claims) to make them whole.
I propose the following be considered in order to mitigate issues relating to children.
Governmental vouchers can be provided in order to foster Harvey children for an unlimited time or until Houston can once again be back on its feet.
Public schools all over the country would be asked to accept 100 or more students and to find families to foster them.
Families willing to foster children would be reimbursed via monthly stipends and tax write-offs.
This too would apply to learning institutions.
Public and private industry willing to help would also receive exemptions.
But there is a caveat...
That effective immediately environmental studies, urban planning and climate change be made primary to all HS, college and university core curriculum.
8
This family seems to have a good idea of who to call (e.g., FEMA), it is just very hard to connect these days. There are resources that can help, such as the 2-1-1 Helpline, which helps provide information & referrals for support with housing, food or other basic needs.
I'm not sure I understand some of the comments Texaco posted about foster care options for families with kids. The child would have to be separated from his/her parents & possibly other siblings, to get gov't disaster assistance for food, housing and education? That sounds incredibly traumatizing and inhumane. Families would be given monetary incentives to foster other people's children, when the children's own parents love them and would be traumatized by being separated from them?
Why not just give the families support that could help them rebuild their lives together? Keeping a healthy, loving family together should always be the goal of policies trying to help families. Is there a reason to punish families that are victims of a natural disaster?
Houston ISD is a huge school district, there are schools in Houston that can help those families that are displaced. Why send kids out of state, or out of Houston?
I agree that environmental studies , which would cover climate change, and urban planning, including factors influencing or challenging sustainable development, would be great additions to a core curriculum.
I'm not sure I understand some of the comments Texaco posted about foster care options for families with kids. The child would have to be separated from his/her parents & possibly other siblings, to get gov't disaster assistance for food, housing and education? That sounds incredibly traumatizing and inhumane. Families would be given monetary incentives to foster other people's children, when the children's own parents love them and would be traumatized by being separated from them?
Why not just give the families support that could help them rebuild their lives together? Keeping a healthy, loving family together should always be the goal of policies trying to help families. Is there a reason to punish families that are victims of a natural disaster?
Houston ISD is a huge school district, there are schools in Houston that can help those families that are displaced. Why send kids out of state, or out of Houston?
I agree that environmental studies , which would cover climate change, and urban planning, including factors influencing or challenging sustainable development, would be great additions to a core curriculum.
5
What's up with your foster child proposal? Families must stay together.
5
So many of us wish we could reach out and help this family, and I am sure many will. The greater tragedy is for every family like this, noble and deserving as they are, there are thousands more who struggle in silence. Governor Abbott has said no special legislative session, which means no "rainy day funds"—if Harvey does not qualify as a rainy day, the bar must be high in Texas—will be made available.
My personal promise to myself and my country is to find one, just one such household be it family or single person, and do all that I can to help them on this long, long road to recovery.
God bless them all.
My personal promise to myself and my country is to find one, just one such household be it family or single person, and do all that I can to help them on this long, long road to recovery.
God bless them all.
193
Why not make a donation to the Red Cross?
What a great idea! How would you find this family, I would like to do the same.
I love your idea about helping a family, househols, or individual through the long recovery process. I would like to do that, too. I wonder if there is an organization that matches those in need with people willing to help. My husband and I have done this at Christmas (anonymously), buying gifts for the whole family, as well as groceries. We have already donated to several charities that are helping people affected by Harvey, but it doesn't seem like enough.
2
we have been this difficult and frustrating experiences before.
we have empathy for the family. they may not be much from the Fema
and small business administration to help them to rebuilt. the damages to the first floor was obviously due to flood. Their insurance company may not pay it. the Maximum loan for rebuilding small business administration may be $220,000. the interesting rate is around 4%.
this loan would be additional payment for top of their existence mortgage loans. furthermore, they may be not able to find an property insurance company to insure them due to the swamp land
nature of Houston, Texas. Houston's city grounds have dropped at least 10-12 feet since the 1920's . the source is the U.S. Geological survey- the scientific agency of American government. we have empathy for them.
we have empathy for the family. they may not be much from the Fema
and small business administration to help them to rebuilt. the damages to the first floor was obviously due to flood. Their insurance company may not pay it. the Maximum loan for rebuilding small business administration may be $220,000. the interesting rate is around 4%.
this loan would be additional payment for top of their existence mortgage loans. furthermore, they may be not able to find an property insurance company to insure them due to the swamp land
nature of Houston, Texas. Houston's city grounds have dropped at least 10-12 feet since the 1920's . the source is the U.S. Geological survey- the scientific agency of American government. we have empathy for them.
5
Heart-wrenching stories. I did my share of donation to the American Red Cross, but it seems to me that Sky Scraper Residences and multi-level parking are the solution for future housing needs of America, because I don't see residents of sky scrapers making much complaining.
1
Except if there if fire or tornados
8
Except skyscrapers and multi-level garage buildings fill in much of the water table, leaving the land that much less able to absorb future storms.
8
Except if flooding causes the power to go out, the elevator can't work, and the residents have trouble using stairs. The apartments in Houston are built above the garages - all above ground so the cars won't flood. This was more common after Tropical Storm Allison because many flooded when parked in garages that were at street level or below.
2
The tragedy is the developers here just build homes for profit and no regard for the homeowners and community after the neighborhood is sold.
There needs to be more awareness, people can no longer trust that because it's allowed, it should be safe. The whole area needs an overhaul for flood control. If the Netherlands can do it, so can we. Pay now, or pay later.
Why not begin another New Deal, call it the green deal, or even the infrastructure deal. Put people to work and save our land.
There needs to be more awareness, people can no longer trust that because it's allowed, it should be safe. The whole area needs an overhaul for flood control. If the Netherlands can do it, so can we. Pay now, or pay later.
Why not begin another New Deal, call it the green deal, or even the infrastructure deal. Put people to work and save our land.
357
Amen)
7
It's awful that homes are built in flood zones, but it happens across the country. In the upper mid-west, where rivers regularly flood with snowmelt, those who have homes near the river consider their flood insurance to be a kind of remodeling savings plan. When one purchases a home, it is up to the buyer to do due diligence and research whether the house is in a hazardous area (on or near an earthquake fault, in a flood plain, built on dredged and filled land, etc.), even beyond what comes out in the purchasing and financing disclosures and inspections. People do knowingly purchase and build homes in areas known to flood. Who are we to blame? The builders, the planning commissions, or the buyers? I don't think the answer is as clear as you say it is.
I'm as horrified as anyone at what is going on in Texas. I just don't think the entire story is being told. You talk about "awareness," but people in Houston are well aware that the place floods. This disaster is about mismanagement and an "act of God" (in the legal sense) that was beyond what any city, county or state government could control.
Yes, the city needs to do some major flood control projects and work on its disaster planning. But that's been true for a long, long while.
(Just FYI, my home is in a wildfire area with a history of major earthquakes. I am fully aware that it can all go up or down at any time. I'm fine with that.)
I'm as horrified as anyone at what is going on in Texas. I just don't think the entire story is being told. You talk about "awareness," but people in Houston are well aware that the place floods. This disaster is about mismanagement and an "act of God" (in the legal sense) that was beyond what any city, county or state government could control.
Yes, the city needs to do some major flood control projects and work on its disaster planning. But that's been true for a long, long while.
(Just FYI, my home is in a wildfire area with a history of major earthquakes. I am fully aware that it can all go up or down at any time. I'm fine with that.)
1
The reality is that individuals can do all the due diligence imaginable, but a significant number of our population centers/job centers are located in "hazardous" areas and it's not feasible to abandon them to the elements or shift all the risk to families, like the Amofas. In addition to a renewed and sustained emphasis on managing and reducing our impact on the environment, we are going to have to make significant investments in systems and solutions that enable collective living in areas prone to catastrophic damage from the elements.
5
Trump's handlers need to load the privileged New York City boy and his international fashion model trophy wife into a john boat and motor them into the badly trashed neighborhoods in Houston or Beaumont where they can see and smell and watch and perhaps begin to understand the scope of the human tragedy that is the aftermath of this natural disaster. I've seen no evidence that either he or she comprehends what this is all about. It's "wonderful." "Have a good time!" He acts as though Harvey struck just to provide him with an opportunity for some positive PR. On the way home I will bet that his handlers were congratulating themselves that he wasn't even more inappropriate. Wait for the tweets.
59
Hope this family can get the help they need. How about the billionaires and millionaires out there?!
22
And the oil companies AND the congressmen that deny climate change
11
How about you? Camano Island is pretty affluent and 96% white. Ms Ford-Amofa could really help your diversity, both economically and racially.
10
Actually there are some stepping up to the plate - the founder of Dell promised 36 million. Others are following. Makes Trump's 1 million look pretty paltry.
16
I can't imagine being in the position these folks now face. I've contributed to help Houston, but I know the hard work ahead for them will be tremendous. My heart aches for all that they and those similarly situated will go through
Texas has prided itself on limiting zoning rules and limited regulations on business, which gave them bragging rights that they let everyone know about when other parts of the country were in economic distress. Now, all of the citizens of the country will be paying for the infrastructure that Texas ignored and which exacerbated the damage
Texas has prided itself on limiting zoning rules and limited regulations on business, which gave them bragging rights that they let everyone know about when other parts of the country were in economic distress. Now, all of the citizens of the country will be paying for the infrastructure that Texas ignored and which exacerbated the damage
34
Seconding a previous comment, I too wish that the article had included reliable avenues of donation for helping these folks.
7
Mercy Corps, they are based in Portland, Oregon. We've been donating to them for years.
3
Mayor Turner of Houston established a fund.
https://ghcf.org/hurricane-relief/
https://ghcf.org/hurricane-relief/
2
There but for the grace of God...
22
"There but for the grace of God..." No Raven55, you are not there because you don't live in a flood plane or you have flood insurance. God has nothing to do with it if you live out of the flood plane, you won't get flooded out by a hurricane.
1
Surely there is a police department somewhere in the Midwest who can give Mr. Amofa a job and a church organization who will adopt this family and buy them a home and outfit it so they can move on with their lives? Why would you go back and rebuild or remodel only to live in fear of the next rain or hurricane season? And they still have to keep paying on their mortgages all the while. Hey bank, how about an interest-free moratorium for 5 years? You kind of owe it to all of us you ripped off, tanking the economy bank in '08.
You help people one family at a time. And this family certainly deserves help.
You help people one family at a time. And this family certainly deserves help.
47
this was a 500 year event and could happen in a great many cities around the country. Thinking this family should just "move" is shortsighted and foolish.
5
because his employment is on off shore oil rigs. That family is proud yo be Americans
Let's hope that Texas gets the help it needs without the usual red tape and other stupidities that afflict recovery efforts as they proceed. And let's also hope that the government deals harshly with any scams that part Texans from their money or pretend that they can perform miracles after a disaster like Harvey.
22
It boggles my mind that Donald Trump would utter to forlorn flood refugees forced to reside in temporary shelters “As tough as this was, it’s been a wonderful thing, I think, even for the country to watch and for the world to watch. People are "really happy with what’s going on, it’s been very well-received.”
Sure he met with people and did what he was supposed to do all along.
And probably for the first time wasn't worrying about what his elaborate hair style looked like in the wind. But he doesn't get points.
He's still comparing it to television viewing. Wonderful for the country and the world to watch?? It brings a tear almost each time most people tune in to the coverage of these hardships.
It reminds me of 2005 when people were officials simply relocated flood refugees to different states--- when the president's mother Barbara Bush toured the Houston Astrodome complex--- gawking at people who lost family, friends, homes and every possession in Louisiana during Katrina.
Similarly out of touch as Trump is, Mrs. Bush said "And so many of the people in the arena here, you know, were underprivileged anyway, so this is working very well for them."
Something about the wealthy being so far removed from suffering and losing everything basic thing that they can't even relate. So they say stupid, insulting stuff to the commoners. That snobbish sense of aristocracy.
This is why we left Britain centuries ago to start what's now left of our democracy.
Sure he met with people and did what he was supposed to do all along.
And probably for the first time wasn't worrying about what his elaborate hair style looked like in the wind. But he doesn't get points.
He's still comparing it to television viewing. Wonderful for the country and the world to watch?? It brings a tear almost each time most people tune in to the coverage of these hardships.
It reminds me of 2005 when people were officials simply relocated flood refugees to different states--- when the president's mother Barbara Bush toured the Houston Astrodome complex--- gawking at people who lost family, friends, homes and every possession in Louisiana during Katrina.
Similarly out of touch as Trump is, Mrs. Bush said "And so many of the people in the arena here, you know, were underprivileged anyway, so this is working very well for them."
Something about the wealthy being so far removed from suffering and losing everything basic thing that they can't even relate. So they say stupid, insulting stuff to the commoners. That snobbish sense of aristocracy.
This is why we left Britain centuries ago to start what's now left of our democracy.
212
It's not only the wealthy saying "stupid, insulting stuff to the commoners." There
are plenty of commoners amongst the commenters who have made stupid, insulting, holier-than-thou comments, which they did after Sandy and do after a natural disaster of any form hits any part of the country. People posted such comments while family members and rescue workers were frantically searching for missing loved ones following a tragic mud slide. They could not even wait until
the missing were found, and the bodies buried.
are plenty of commoners amongst the commenters who have made stupid, insulting, holier-than-thou comments, which they did after Sandy and do after a natural disaster of any form hits any part of the country. People posted such comments while family members and rescue workers were frantically searching for missing loved ones following a tragic mud slide. They could not even wait until
the missing were found, and the bodies buried.
2
Things could have been far worse had the Whitehouse not been organized, we can thank General Kelly for the dramatic chaos reduction. Now, about those policies which caused the extreme weather in the first place...
6
You actually call this Whitehouse organized? Wake up.
4
In Connecticut, a small town fire department, a local tv channel, a minor league baseball team, a beer brewery, and many, many others are raising money and goods for Texas relief. I wish Cruz and the rest of the Texas delegation could see first hand what New England is doing to help Texas! Will they remember the next time we're in need?
40
short memory. People from all over the country, including Texas, helped eastern states after Sandy!
12
BX---. your Texas government in CONGRESS voted AGAINST giving aid to us Blue Giver States after Sandy. We have very long memories. Educate yourself.
1
If someone will only answer the phone. How true. A major disaster, lives disrupted, can anyone even get to work? It is difficult enough in normal times to deal with the "press one for x, press 2 for y, etc." Personally it drives me mad. I need people to talk to. I have a question that the automated system never even knew about. And now we have the same issue. The automated systems are not capable of understanding individual needs -- especially in crisis. Just a human voice, a connection .. simple, reassuring.
You our our government -- get on the ball!!!
You our our government -- get on the ball!!!
21
But Trump has cut by Executive Order many of the agencies that support FEMA.
13
The "Superfund' sites should receive extended coverage. Houstonians living near the sites have been ignored for decades. take on this story and do not let it die.
21
This is what happens when you have the rugged individual west of Houston - no zoning! No regulations! So you sell ignorant, hard working folks fraud - a house in a flood plain that they spend their entire lives working to pay for. Insurance companies know better than to insure these flood plain houses. In California, sellers must disclose to potential buyers that the house is prone to flooding. This flood was not unexpected. it was just a matter of time. They should never rebuild their home. They should walk and move to higher ground. This hard working family deserves to know the truth. And we in America will not solve this deep divide among our citizens in red and blue states until we all tell the truth ourselves.
45
When we bought I Houston, I quickly accessed information about the house's elevation on the Harris County web site. That information is available to anyone who takes the time to look.
Harvey made landfall as a cat 4 hurricane at Rockport Texas on Friday August 25th, dumping 25 inches of rain. Due to a land-based front it stalled over the Houston area dumping another 25 inches of rain over the weekend. On Monday, it then went back out over the Gulf and picked up another load of moisture before making landfall a second time near Beaumont Tx on Wednesday.
So imagine San Francisco got a magnitude 8 earthquake on a Friday and a second magnitude 8 earthquake on the following Monday. If only 10% of homes were damaged would you appreciate your fellow citizens advising that YOUR city is nothing but an ill-planned liability to the remaining taxpayers of the country?
So imagine San Francisco got a magnitude 8 earthquake on a Friday and a second magnitude 8 earthquake on the following Monday. If only 10% of homes were damaged would you appreciate your fellow citizens advising that YOUR city is nothing but an ill-planned liability to the remaining taxpayers of the country?
1
I suggest that the president and Congress should turn away from building a very controversial wall along the Mexican border and instead focus attention and funding to the protection of American coastal cities from ever increasing damaging storms and ongoing rise in sea level. There are limits to what our nation can afford, so we must prioritize our funds and political energy on high level projects. Protection of our vulnerable costal areas is an obvious choice. The only walls we need at this time are seawalls.
97
Where could we send donations and other resources to the Amofa family.
To other writers: Stop with the politicization; start helping!
To other writers: Stop with the politicization; start helping!
18
While most average citizens want to help and are trying to help politics keep coming up. Why don't you address that question to the GOP donor giving Donald Trump Jr 100,000 to talk at a North Texas University. Aside from the additional taxpayer money going to secret service, what type of message does this send to this country as well as the hardworking Amofa family?
6
Your reply confirms what I wrote. Some people just can't help themselves. Send a donation. I have. When will you and all others still complaining about Trump contribute rather than pontificate.
Journalistic insight into a deluge continuum that we can all expect anywhere in these times of cause and effect of a neglected Mother Earth.Beyond the tragedy of home loss, dislocation, family trauma and courage, given the climate of unexpected natural catastrophic events, reparation and recovery should be borne by the nation. Where a representative of the nation gathers in the melee it his greatest test of humaneness and honesty. Is it merely a photo opportunity or an event, in the wake of Katrina, that dictates a requirement for new federal 'beyond-insurance' policy? This is an attack on America.No legal insurer flood-damage technicality should add further suffering to these good citizens. The entire world has watched and sympathised and prayed for those caught unawares of this event. And the world is watching one man who is never beyond camera-range. Shall he demolish that inhumane wall between insurers ever-looking for a technical escape-route from their responsibilities...or will he build a wall between the elected and the suffering electors? Out of adversity comes opportunity.
3
It is too bad it is not a Presidential election year as it was in 1972 when I dealt with Hurricane Agnes as the architect member of a Flood Recovery Team which was formed by the State of Pennsylvania. Nixon did a flyover and funds were quickly forthcoming. Unfortunately repairs to homes occurred further down the line. Hopefully you will eventually have the opportunity to meet face to face with people in this computer driven age. The critical item is to get temporary housing as quickly as possible which the feds, state, and local should be dealing with as top priority right now through all means at hand. The best with your endeavor.
4
The challenges and hardships facing Kris Ford-Amofa and her family are unimaginable. All gone: house, schools, savings, and new car. No hotel rooms or rental cars to be had. No flood insurance, like most Houston residents. Untangling contractors, experts, and the FEMA bureaucracy.
Since the 1980s, the Texas and federal Republican governments have stopped protecting the environment, stopped investing in flood infrastructure, and encouraged irresponsible development. Their policies are directly responsible for a much if not most of the tragedy here.
Are the president and the governor going to abandon this independent hard-working woman and her family? The Texas Congressional Republicans routinely vote against aid for victims of serious hurricanes like Harvey. That was wrong before for Hurricane Sandy, and it would be wrong now for Houston.
America needs leadership and real action. What are we getting out of the White House? NPR played Mr. Trump's comments during his visit today to an emergency shelter. "There's a lot of happiness here," he started. "Though there has been incredible hardship," he continued. "it's the most wonderful thing. ..."
Since the 1980s, the Texas and federal Republican governments have stopped protecting the environment, stopped investing in flood infrastructure, and encouraged irresponsible development. Their policies are directly responsible for a much if not most of the tragedy here.
Are the president and the governor going to abandon this independent hard-working woman and her family? The Texas Congressional Republicans routinely vote against aid for victims of serious hurricanes like Harvey. That was wrong before for Hurricane Sandy, and it would be wrong now for Houston.
America needs leadership and real action. What are we getting out of the White House? NPR played Mr. Trump's comments during his visit today to an emergency shelter. "There's a lot of happiness here," he started. "Though there has been incredible hardship," he continued. "it's the most wonderful thing. ..."
22
His statements alone are cause for impeachment; he doesn't get people's needs and we never will
8
I worry about the wait that these families will have to endure before anything happens. As relatively recent victims of a different kind of disaster - a tractor trailer slammed into our commercial building in mid-April, leaving a two story hole - we're still waiting for the insurance company before we can begin rebuilding - the tarps hung in April are still hanging from our roof. And that was just a single building, not an entire city experiencing devastating loss. My unsolicited advice to them would be to get out and go somewhere else and start over as quickly as they can. It will likely be years before this is settled. The wait is going to be awful.
15
Imagine not having several days prior warning of the potential of such an event, no time at all to prepare or evacuate. That is what an earthquake is like.
10
New dams needed in Houston no matter the cost.
6
I have tunneled into Trump's mind. I hear his thoughts as he returns to Houston:
"This time I act caring. These chumps, including the entire American population, will believe anything!"
"This time I act caring. These chumps, including the entire American population, will believe anything!"
52
The cynicism is overwhelming.......why?
5
Not funny or clever. Making up the feelings and thoughts of someone is not fair. or insightful or useful. How would you like that if someone did that to you?
6
Because Donald is a hypocrite. He doesn't care for the folks in Texas, he cares that they vote GOP!
15
I grew up in Central Florida; I have lived through hurricanes. I helped my parents get ready for hurricanes. So I have a great deal of sympathy and empathy for the Amofa family. They clearly need help!
However, this is the second -- 2nd! -- time I have seen a Republican administration -- and truly, a Republican Congress -- screw up a response to the damage and disaster in the wake of a vicious hurricane.
I just want to say that voting -- or not voting -- has consequences. Voting -- or not voting -- can have life or death consequences. Voting just to "send a message" also can have life-changing consequences. I have no idea how the Amofas and their friends and family -- as well as the people reading this column -- voted. Right now, the Amofas and others who are suffering as a result of Hurricane Harvey need help and they need it fast. It is pointless to inquire how someone voted.
It would be instructive, though. to talk with victims of Hurricane Harvey in 2018 to ask if they are satisfied with the Republican response to their dire needs as a result of Hurricane Harvey and if they are planning on voting Republican in 2018.
However, this is the second -- 2nd! -- time I have seen a Republican administration -- and truly, a Republican Congress -- screw up a response to the damage and disaster in the wake of a vicious hurricane.
I just want to say that voting -- or not voting -- has consequences. Voting -- or not voting -- can have life or death consequences. Voting just to "send a message" also can have life-changing consequences. I have no idea how the Amofas and their friends and family -- as well as the people reading this column -- voted. Right now, the Amofas and others who are suffering as a result of Hurricane Harvey need help and they need it fast. It is pointless to inquire how someone voted.
It would be instructive, though. to talk with victims of Hurricane Harvey in 2018 to ask if they are satisfied with the Republican response to their dire needs as a result of Hurricane Harvey and if they are planning on voting Republican in 2018.
63
So if Hillary had won, Harvey would have been no problem? Or she'd magically have fixed everything already?
11
Yeah, this is a democrat/ republican issue.......I hope you're kidding
This is NOT an easy thing to coordinate. I'd like to see you do it.
This is NOT an easy thing to coordinate. I'd like to see you do it.
7
Trump has only been in office since the end of January. The entire FEMA apparatus, their plans and capabilities have been established long before, including the previous eight years under Obama. Things didn't magically fall apart on January 20!
8
I live in a place between two rivers that had flooding issues in the 1920s. Even though I live in an apartment on the fourth floor I nevertheless own a life-jacket and an inflatable raft. I also have clean water for 10 days, water filters with basically unlimited capacity and food for six weeks stored in my little apartment.
In addition I have a power generator, two car batteries with a DC/AC converter and a solar panel for when the fuel (about 10 gallons) runs out. Oh, and a petrol space heater for the winter. And a gasoline based cooking stove. And a gas mask. Soooo... BRING IT ON!
If everybody (who can afford it) would have even just one quarter of the stuff I've surrounded myself with the first responders would have a much, much easier time. It's hard to bring in 10.000 life jackets after a city is already drowning. But if everybody has one it's much easier to prevent death.
Imagine everybody owning a small, inflatable raft like mine (packing dimensions: 3*1*1 foot). Imagine the flooded people stringing them together and waiting for rescue. Then a boat comes, throws them a line and slowly pulls them to safety like a string of pearls. What a wonderful picture that would be in all this devastation!
The U.S. isn't keen on regulations, so such a thing will never be mandatory. But in one of the richest nations on earth the citizens should be able to plan ahead for catastrophic events of all kinds and have some very basic stuff and knowledge. Public awareness is key!
In addition I have a power generator, two car batteries with a DC/AC converter and a solar panel for when the fuel (about 10 gallons) runs out. Oh, and a petrol space heater for the winter. And a gasoline based cooking stove. And a gas mask. Soooo... BRING IT ON!
If everybody (who can afford it) would have even just one quarter of the stuff I've surrounded myself with the first responders would have a much, much easier time. It's hard to bring in 10.000 life jackets after a city is already drowning. But if everybody has one it's much easier to prevent death.
Imagine everybody owning a small, inflatable raft like mine (packing dimensions: 3*1*1 foot). Imagine the flooded people stringing them together and waiting for rescue. Then a boat comes, throws them a line and slowly pulls them to safety like a string of pearls. What a wonderful picture that would be in all this devastation!
The U.S. isn't keen on regulations, so such a thing will never be mandatory. But in one of the richest nations on earth the citizens should be able to plan ahead for catastrophic events of all kinds and have some very basic stuff and knowledge. Public awareness is key!
76
Don't badmouth regulations which protect people from disaster, danger, and threats to their survival and health. Call them what they are PROTECTIONS!
9
@SanFranciscoVoter, one regulation that California could use is a limit on population. California is home to 8 of the top ten polluting cities. California leads the league in homeless, especially where you live. Californians can hardly breathe at times from The masses of people driving on their overcrowded freeways.California is home to mudslides, fires, flooding, lack of water and of course they have major cities directly on the San Andreas Fault Line. Californians needs updated regulations for sure
8
As a long time paid NYT subscriber, I think I can ask --why not this quote from President Trump, somewhere?
"We’re one American family brought together in times of tragedy by the unbreakable bonds of love and loyalty that we have for one another,” Trump said. “And there is a great love and a great loyalty in this country, and I think we’ve all seen it, maybe more so than ever before over the last four days.”
"We’re one American family brought together in times of tragedy by the unbreakable bonds of love and loyalty that we have for one another,” Trump said. “And there is a great love and a great loyalty in this country, and I think we’ve all seen it, maybe more so than ever before over the last four days.”
11
Because it would make him appear caring and reasonable? Can't have that!
4
I have read that quote, part of Trump's scripted comments which were well-received. You will find a portion of this quote in the WH Memo by Glenn Thrush published on August 29. I subscribe digitally to the NYT and read it almost exclusively along with news from the BBC. I am wondering how you concluded that the NYT did not cover this.
5
The man is a hypocrite!
8
Wonderful people for sure. Not doing them justice - I want to be like them when I grow up! I am not a cryer, but this was a close one.
It is not detracting at all from them to say there are stories like theirs all over Houston. I wonder if it would be possible for the NYT to do something like a GoFundMe for individual families. Sometimes people feel more effective connecting with and helping particular people.
I know there are local non-profits to donate to, as well as the Red Cross (They have their faults, but they're always there). I've donated. But there are some with sufficient resources who can invest in a family or extended family who in turn can serve as a source for information and help for a wider community.
It is not detracting at all from them to say there are stories like theirs all over Houston. I wonder if it would be possible for the NYT to do something like a GoFundMe for individual families. Sometimes people feel more effective connecting with and helping particular people.
I know there are local non-profits to donate to, as well as the Red Cross (They have their faults, but they're always there). I've donated. But there are some with sufficient resources who can invest in a family or extended family who in turn can serve as a source for information and help for a wider community.
13
It is always the poor that suffer the most and are victimized by global warming and catastrophes such as Hurricane Harvey, Since hundreds of gas and oil refineries, chemical and plastic plants and waste water treatment have been built in poor areas throughout this region, the poor are the victims of the pollution and sickness that these facilities spew each day.
264
These folks are middle class. It doesn't make the loss of their home any easier, but they aren't poor.
Donald Trump Jr. is going to be paid $100,000 to speak at a the University of North Texas. Maybe the Texas Universities should be helping their people who are sitting in water.
163
Maybe Don Jr will donate the $100,000 to the Harvey Relief Fund. Your comment is very odd. You have no idea who is donating .
2
And the point is, what? Are the Clintons or Obamas foregoing even fatter appearance fees and donating them entirely?
7
Brian-maybe pigs will fly! And as for the SCPOTUS "pledge" of one million toward Harvey relief, he has a notorious history of making "yuge" pledges to various charities that never get fulfilled.
4
I felt overwhelmed just reading about it. God help those that have to do it.
35
After reading this story I think you and your family will overcome this nightmare. You are the glue that holds the family together - and your sister will help you keep,your sanity!! Good Luck- keep,the faith
33
This desperate family must be not be one of the "...very happy" survivors of hurricane Harvey that Trump just referred to. Cruel reality confronts cruel fantasy.
86
Beautiful writing enhanced by the magnificent opening image. The American dream shattered by Mother Nature's exertion in near collusion with the state. That you for this breathtaking story at this moment in the tragedy.
18
I feel for the people of Texas and the road which awaits them as the water recedes. My father and step mother tried to ride out Sandy in their home on Long Island. As I tried to get to them, they escaped, leaving behind the last home they would share together as 16 feet of water eventually enveloped and destroyed their home.
My step mother had Alzheimer's and my father took care of her never wanting to put her anywhere else but the place she knew best - her home. Afterwards, we all stayed in a too small home and it was clear that after 90 years of residency on Long Island that my father could no longer stay and he had to place his wife in a long-term care facility.
During my one month stay, I waited on lines with my father. One line for insurance another for FEMA. Finally, another line which told him that his house needed to be remediated because of a heating fuel leakage. It would take 9-12 months before there would be anything to move back in to.
I'd only once seen my father cry before and this time it came from the realization that he no longer had a home; he could not stay on Long Island; he needed to move in with one of his sons and finally; and he had to leave his wife behind.
This is the reality of a storm and the desperation which takes place when you realize everything in your world has changed. This is why I feel so badly for the people affected by Harvey. It will take endless forms and years to recover for many of them. Some may never.
My step mother had Alzheimer's and my father took care of her never wanting to put her anywhere else but the place she knew best - her home. Afterwards, we all stayed in a too small home and it was clear that after 90 years of residency on Long Island that my father could no longer stay and he had to place his wife in a long-term care facility.
During my one month stay, I waited on lines with my father. One line for insurance another for FEMA. Finally, another line which told him that his house needed to be remediated because of a heating fuel leakage. It would take 9-12 months before there would be anything to move back in to.
I'd only once seen my father cry before and this time it came from the realization that he no longer had a home; he could not stay on Long Island; he needed to move in with one of his sons and finally; and he had to leave his wife behind.
This is the reality of a storm and the desperation which takes place when you realize everything in your world has changed. This is why I feel so badly for the people affected by Harvey. It will take endless forms and years to recover for many of them. Some may never.
278
What a moving story. Thank you.
1
Why did your father"have to leave his wife behind"?!The son who took in your father could have taken in his wife,or helped arrange the placement of his wife in a facility that was close to your father's new location.
I want this lovely family and others in Houston to know that we are all thinking of them and praying for them and that they can and will get through this one day at a time. Your hard work in saving for your house was not for nothing. Hang in there!
124
Thoughts and prayers aren't going to repair her house or buy her a car so she can get to work. Try sending something useful: money.
1
A truly well-written story. It really does make you understand how, in these catastophic situations, people always tend to help one another and start again together.
20
I wonder where they can take all that trash etc....must be a huge problem.
4
I wondered the same thing. Undertaking such a big project is daunting in the best circumstances, but without basic infrastructure, it is mind-boggling. I hope the Amofas and the other survivors do not suffer ill effects from handling and living near this hazardous material.
3
If you'll recall the 9/11 first responders and excavators you can probably ascertain that this will not end well for far too many in Houston.
Meanwhile, Trump continues with his photo ops.
Meanwhile, Trump continues with his photo ops.
6
It's through tears I read this story - for the challenges of the Amofa family and for the kindness of friends and strangers.
Donated to a Harvey fund this morning...wish I could do more.
Donated to a Harvey fund this morning...wish I could do more.
137
Where is the Harvey fund? Having been through Sandy Hook and knowing how banks and people not directly affected take control of the donations, red tape ensues and things don't turn out like donors thought or wanted them to. I'd like to give directly to a family, any family.
1
Don't worry, trump got his picture in the paper and on TV! Everything is going great for him because he's on the high side of his mania!
38
My thoughts & prayers are with the people of Texas. Stay strong.....!
7
So much hardship, so much faith, so much determination. I will pray for this family.
22
Thank you for this story. It's been difficult to fathom the experiences of those affected. This is a thoughtfully written story of real people, draws a picture for me.
18
I have operated homeless shelters and senior centers. Many prominent and well-to-do people volunteer in them and contribute to their upkeep on a year-round basis without feeling any desire for television cameras and reporters.
In Trump's case, however, the cameras may be justified, as it is highly likely that he regards this as the first and last time he’ll ever appear at a shelter, and therefore the event legitimately qualifies as a matter that should be captured for posterity.
As to whether he has left any sort of contribution, I will leave that for his tax attorneys to disclose.
His tax records, as you know, are ordinarily kept top secret.
But yes, you can be absolutely certain that he will take a long, hot shower as soon as he gets back on his plane.
In Trump's case, however, the cameras may be justified, as it is highly likely that he regards this as the first and last time he’ll ever appear at a shelter, and therefore the event legitimately qualifies as a matter that should be captured for posterity.
As to whether he has left any sort of contribution, I will leave that for his tax attorneys to disclose.
His tax records, as you know, are ordinarily kept top secret.
But yes, you can be absolutely certain that he will take a long, hot shower as soon as he gets back on his plane.
24
And you would probably be the first person to criticize him if he had not visited the flood-ravaged areas.
2
Ian, It ain't what ya do it's the way thats you do it!
2
God bless them and the others that still suffer from this terrible storm. Many don't know that flood insurance is sold by FEMA but ONLY to those in a 100 year flood plain. And many of them, 80%, choose not to buy it. But for folks not in a flood plain there is simply no such thing as flood insurance and this was a 1000 year flood. So besides those that could have bought flood insurance but didn't you have thousands that simply could not buy rising water insurance and so are going to fund this reconstruction on their own at least for a while until FEMA can start giving out their low interest loans.
10
"flood insurance is sold by FEMA but ONLY to those in a 100 year flood plain. And many of them, 80%, choose not to buy it."
This is incorrect. 1. You don't need to be in a flood zone to be able to join the flood insurance program, AKA FEMA.
2. Anyone located in a flood zone with an outstanding mortgage is required to have flood insurance - that's non-negotiable.
This is incorrect. 1. You don't need to be in a flood zone to be able to join the flood insurance program, AKA FEMA.
2. Anyone located in a flood zone with an outstanding mortgage is required to have flood insurance - that's non-negotiable.
12
Well the Times itself reported the 20% participation rate the other day, I believe.
3
Here's the article...and it's 15% in Houston: Homeowners (and Taxpayers) Face Billions in Losses From Harvey Flooding https://nyti.ms/2vErHlU
Texas is so big. The enormity of the tasks so many families face from the upending of their homes is almost mind boggling. I would expect that many are considering relocating rather than rebuilding. Ideally flood insurance and other forms of relief would assist a family to rebuild in another region rather than a rebuild for an eventual repeat disaster in a location that has proven vulnerable.
11
A beautiful family, thanks for sharing the story of their struggle to regain self reliance.
19
I am not an engineer but it seems that the rebuilding should be upward with large condominium complexes. If not, the same misery will happen every five years.
8
While our so-called president piles some $40 billion into an already bloated defense budget,
his 2018 budget blueprint slashes:
$667 million from FEMA funds including disaster relief;
$90 million in FEMA pre-disaster mitigation funds;
$190 million from the National Flood Insurance program.
Meanwhile the EPA is being gutted.
This is called making america great again.
his 2018 budget blueprint slashes:
$667 million from FEMA funds including disaster relief;
$90 million in FEMA pre-disaster mitigation funds;
$190 million from the National Flood Insurance program.
Meanwhile the EPA is being gutted.
This is called making america great again.
236
For God's sake, help these people, federal government! Help them to rebuild in a safer location, give them adequate monetary resources to jump-start their lives, help them to not give in to despair and bitterness, and please, make the resources available for as long as they are needed. And cut through the bureaucratic red tape so that the recovery can begin as soon as possible. Try not to think about yourselves and your political futures, senators and congressmen/women. And EXPEDITE the phone situation -- put more people to work in the agencies which these people need for the recovery.
29
Trump obviously assumes we're his chumps. He returns to Houston to pretend this time that he cares a whit about the tens of thousands of suffering flood victims. And to think, I never believed that any president could be worse than Nixon, defiler of our Constitution, or W, in my opinion an unindicted war criminal!
64
apologies to G & S's Disagreeable Man
I am frustrated Donald, I'm frustrated by the Storm,
I planned to shut down Government, a Republican norm,
T’was blackmail for the Great Trump Wall, the money I require,
Along came Harvey uninvited, set my pants on fire,
We’ll have to shell out plenty, you should see the damage done,
It keeps me from a battle I could easily have won,
I hate rebuilding Houston, it’s all bilge and muck and slime,
Why can’t we give assistance, but at some far later time,
I just don’t know why.
H
I am frustrated Donald, I'm frustrated by the Storm,
I planned to shut down Government, a Republican norm,
T’was blackmail for the Great Trump Wall, the money I require,
Along came Harvey uninvited, set my pants on fire,
We’ll have to shell out plenty, you should see the damage done,
It keeps me from a battle I could easily have won,
I hate rebuilding Houston, it’s all bilge and muck and slime,
Why can’t we give assistance, but at some far later time,
I just don’t know why.
H
19
Excellent Larry!!!
3
Our thoughts are certainly with the good people like the Amofa family who are suffering. Those good feelings however, do not extend to the Texas politicians.
267
What an incredible story. I am humbled by Kris's self reliance.
102
I also have a son with autism and am thoroughly inspired by the love the children have for each other. I cannot imagine the dislocation, but I want to help. Is there a GoFundMe account? These people are a model for Americans.
109
Better to encourage the people down there to stop rebuilding in the same flood prone places, or rebuild in a way to eliminate damage the next time. Building in flood prone areas should be prohibited. Those already there should know they will not be permitted to rebuild. I am tired of this endless repetitive cycle of ignorance.
98
Blame developers for building in areas subject to flooding and suckering buyers into thinking the areas are safe.
16
All I can think, Barry, is that those families who re-build in the same area have little or no choice. Why would you do it again if you've been flooded out 2 or 3 times? It makes no sense unless they are stuck there for some reason. You are right - at some point, either government should say "no more building there," or insurance companies will make doing so prohibitively expensive, or something will go on. Our insane desire to build where devastation is bound to occur has to stop....especially on our beaches - they will not be there in another 20-30 years, so why would anyone put or buy property there? I am amazed every time I watch a "beach-front property" type of show - are people really that ignorant about climate change and how that land and housing will be destroyed before too long. I am baffled.
5
I agree. Build large condo complexes (fifty stories high). Spreading homes over flood zones will result in the same horrible mess.
3
Thank you for this piece. For me, learning about the terrible impact to the lives of this one family brings home Harvey's devastation more than the footage of miles of inundated land.
72
"This piece .... brings home more ... than footage of miles of inundated land." Can't agree more -- and the Amofas are only one of uncountable families undergoing what is unimaginable to me, watching from afar. Even if and when the government approves relief funds, these people will be at the mercy of collapsed businesses and swamped bureaucracies for a long, long time. God bless them all.
10
A house not too different from the one I used to own in Kingwood...enormous high ceilings to help with Texas heat, acres of white synthetic fibre carpet, a sizeable footprint with space to park 3 pickup trucks. No one ever thinks they're gonna end up in a thousand-year flood or however we describe it. For many Houstonians who bought during the easy mortgage era of Cpuntrywide and other players, before 2008, this is how they ended up on Easy Street. They thought...
45
No such thing as easy street. No matter what we do in life there is always a curve ball or real hard fast ball. Wham! We can't really predict what Mother Nature will do no matter where we live. Life happens. Rain, snow, sleet, hail, ice, freezing rain, tornadoes, hurricanes, ever rising high tides, insects, snakes, other critters, drought, blizzards, sand storms, alligators, jelly fish, red tides, acid rain, and Earth Quakes and volcanoes. Did I leave anything out...oh, yeah, forest fires. And don't forget to watch out for river sharks and ice bergs that break off and float in the North Atlantic. And locusts. And fire ant colonies that float during floods. I hope I didn't miss anything else. Oh! Wait! North Korea!
And Donald Trump. If he goes off the rails any further we'll have serious problems.
And Donald Trump. If he goes off the rails any further we'll have serious problems.
12
Great reporting. My heart goes out to the Amofa family.
147
Do the Ford-Amofa family have a Go Fund Me account? I notice Houston families posting but I do not see a current account for Ford-Amofa or Amofa in Houston.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa, Oklahoma
120
A well-done story. Shows that although this is not the dramatic national shame and tragedy of Katrina, it has a thorough, devastating impact on many, many regular people.
62
As General Russel Honore said, Katrina was the lesson that should have taught us how to better manage disasters. While it appears to most of us that things are going smoothly, he calls it "amateur hour". Check https://www.washinhtonpost.com/news/checkpoint/we/2017/08/31/questions-a... the-u-s-militarys-evolving-response-to- hurricane-harvey-answered/?utm_term=.f34d8d160b69
4
I felt her frustration & anxiety all the way thru...post Harvey in some ways is worse than the storm itself❗️
There should be a way to minimize this process so as she said, she could feel some control toward rebuilding their lives.
Where do our donations go to help them is my question❓There are also Food Banks for groceries-why didn't she know about that-Houston Food Bank.
Houston City Crisis Mgt now has to STEP UP to lay out detail plans to point these families in the right direction to minimize the stress -IMPORTANT