What Have We Learned?

What have we learned from Hurricanes Katrina, Ivan, Charlie and Dennis? Don't forget the Storm of the Century that struck Cedar Key in 1993. We have learned that much is uncertain. However, this much is certain, storm track predictions are merely predictions. Hurricane Charlie made a ninety degree turn and came ashore far south of what was expected. Also, this much is certain, storm surge can do more damage than wind. We know that Cedar Key was flooded by the 1993 storm that came without any warning. We know that even with warning some people will not or cannot evacuate.

The disaster in New Orleans came a day after Katrina struck. Blame for the failure of New Orleans' levies is yet to be determined. What is certain is that many lives were lost. Perhaps a hundred thousand people in New Orleans had no way of evacuating. Could school buses have been used to move those people? Was it a surprise that so many people had no means of transportation? Planning, leadership and individual responsibility all help save lives in the face of a hurricane.

Beyond self preservation, the citizens and authorities of Cedar Key and Levy County might well establish a list of people who do not have the means or ability to evacuate under their own power. A clear authorized plan to evacuate those people needs to be in place. Who will help the elderly and infirmed?

Hurricane Dennis caused flooding in Cedar Key in 2005. Multiple hurricanes in 2004 destroyed Cedar Key's Big Dock. The eye of Ivan passed directly over Cedar Key. How many hints do we need to realize that any hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico can turn on us?

Highway 24 becomes impassable because of storm surge quite often. Take heed when the Cedar Key Volunteer Fire Department broadcasts a need for voluntary evacuation. When they announce a mandatory evacuation leave the island! And don't stop at the Rosewood storm shelter. Plan ahead. Take individual responsibility and realize it can happen to us.