Harry, I have seen specials (probably on the history channel or discovery channel) about past disasters, which lead to discussions on the shows about possible future disasters. One of the scenarios that was discussed was a catagory 5 hurricane hitting NO, and what it would mean to the city as things stood right then. As I recall, the people on the shows were saying that the scenarios that were being discussed were not an "If", but a "WHEN". They have known for some time that they have been dodging the bullett, and they have known for some time about what they have needed to do to shore up their defenses. Looks like "WHEN" has finally arrived. I feel bad for those poor people down there. I hope that the looters are going to be dealt with harshly. I also hope that anyone caught gouging those poor Lousiana people are dealt with just as harshly.