Whenever a few inches snow hit the DC area, the capital of the free world pretty much comes to a skidding halt. Schools close, special events get canceled, federal workers get a day off, and SUV drivers get cocky and end up upside down in the median strips of major highways. Meanwhile, people in the rest of the country--especially those in the northeast and midwest--smugly declare that snow never bothers them.
Yeah, right.
Buffalo, New York has been hit by an early surprise blizzard that left the city completely paralyzed. Not only were schools closed, but (GASP!) leaf collections had to be canceled. Almost 400,000 people were left without power, pumping stations for local water supplies failed, and municipal workers were unable to get to work to, well, help clear the snow from the roads. At least three weather related deaths were reported.
In response to the dire situation, New York Governor George Pataki has asked President Bush to declare a federal snow emergency. If the request is granted, FEMA will provide assistance to the state.
Considering FEMA's performance in New Orleans, the aid for the snowstorm can be expected to begin arriving sometime next July.
Friday, October 13, 2006
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