So you wanna experience a Cat 3 or higher hurricane, eh?

[GrimReaper]

Only those who have experienced any hurricane, but really a Cat 3 or higher could probably agree with this: If you really want to experience a Cat 3 or higher hurricane, you don't need Dr. Steve Lyons..... you need Dr. Phil!! LOL

[Cryomaniac]

[soapbox]

I think the sooner we accept a certain condition about ourselves that most (but not all) of us have, the sooner we can come to terms with this issue that seems to perpetually simmer on here.

When I applied to Cornell to get into their met program, one of the essays I had to write was why I wanted to become a meteorologist. The most alluring and fascincating aspect that drew me to weather, and continues to do so to this day is the fact that there is this untamed power and fury that we have no power to control. It excites me. It exhilarates me. For some such as storm chasers, it draws to follow.

Inside most of us there lies a conflict. We want to experience the fury and the raw power of nature - to a point. We want the excitement, and the thrill of the storm. But what we don't want is such ferocity that the thrill becomes fear. But more importantly, what we don't want to deal with is the very real consequences - the price that is paid.

There is this point, and it is different for each of us, where the excitement of it all turns to fear - be it fear of death, destruction, loss of friends and family, you name it. Obviously those who have been through such ferocity, and through the aftermath will have a different perspective than those who have not, or have been though storms of lesser intensity. They are the ones who say "Never again".

Deep down inside, most of us really do want to experience the excitement and fury of what nature has to offer. Unfortunately, we want this fury controlled and without consequences. But mom nature doesn't work that way. Perhaps if all parties concerned keep in mind that this conflict is part of the human condition, and there can't be the thrill without the consequences, then those who have suffered can learn not to let it bother them when they see a post viewed as insensitive in this regard, and those who live for the thrill can remember to temper their excitement out of respect for those have suffered because of a storm.

[/soapbox]

Probably the most eloquent explanantion of this issue.

It clearly explains what we are all doing here and helps temper the emotions that run on all sides of the issue of "-removed-"; those who employ it and those who deplore it.

This should be required reading for all.

I applaud you.

I echo the applause, that makes a lot of sense.

[decgirl66]

The most I have experienced was Charley, Jeanne and Frances (Charley being the worst of the 3 for my area). I slept through Charley! I don't know how, because the next morning our little town was ripped apart! Yes, I have that deep down urge to experience a hurricane, but without the consequences....but I know that is not possible....so I just want a threat of one so I don't have to work, but then have it curve away at the last minute! As for tornadoes...I have never experienced one and absolutely do not want to! The thought of a tornado petrifies me! At least with a hurricane, I have warning and can make preparations and leave if I need to.

[Chop]

Hi guys. Steve said he wanted me to come and give me story but the TP article seems to be doing a good job of telling what went on from what I have read so far. I guess I could answer any questions or I could share my story. If I do share my story I probably wont type it up till later since Im at work and I will have alot to type. I'll check in this thread as I can to answer any questions.

[CajunMama]

Hi chop...welcome to s2k. Please do share your story with us. And the next time we have a get together in NO you can join us!

[Chop]

Thanks CajunMama I will share it but like I said Ill have to type it when I have more time, most likely tonight. I wish I still lived in N.O. but Katrina blew me to Texas aka Hell.

[OuterBanker]

Those articles should be mandatory reading for everyone involved in emergency services and relief, period. Every FEMA, SERT, ARC, etc. There will be finger pointing and blame for the rest of our lives on the fiasco of relief services in Katrina. These articles are a small and powerful example of just what happens and the consequences when we are ill prepared.

On second thought it should be mandatory reading for everyone.

[x-y-no]

Been there, done that.

Me too.....and I got the t-shirt!

Oh, yeah ... t-shirts ... I got a couple of those ...

Actually, I bet the NHC one is a bit of a collector's item ...





A little worse for wear ... but then I never was one for keeping things in their original pristine condition.

[Steve]

The chapel in Baptist/Memorial where the bodies lie.

Part 5 (Help finally arrives but 4 deaths on the 7th Floor Raise Questions) <-- haven't read it yet.

http://www.nola.com/news/t-p/frontpage/ ... xml&coll=1

Steve