Clench your teeth against Sandy , USAns

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the media portrayal of Hurricane Sandy, with participants expressing various opinions on the storm's severity and the implications of media hype. The conversation touches on themes of caution versus hysteria, personal experiences with past storms, and the role of government and media in disaster preparedness and response.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that Hurricane Sandy may be another instance of media overhype, arguing that while it is a strong storm, the actual damage may not align with the media's portrayal.
  • Others express concern that media exaggeration could lead to public distrust in future warnings, referencing past experiences with storms like TS Irene.
  • There are claims that the financial losses attributed to the storm may also be exaggerated, with some participants questioning the accountability of media outlets for their reporting.
  • Some participants highlight the balance between caution and hysteria, noting that while media hype can be problematic, actual flooding and damage can validate the need for caution.
  • Participants share personal experiences with hurricanes and storms, discussing the varying impacts and the unpredictability of storm paths.
  • There are differing views on the government's response, with some praising the clarity of official statements while others remain skeptical about the motivations behind media coverage.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus, with multiple competing views on the severity of Hurricane Sandy, the role of media in shaping public perception, and the appropriate level of caution in response to such storms.

Contextual Notes

Some claims about the financial impact of the storm and the nature of media reporting are presented without supporting evidence, leaving room for interpretation and further discussion.

  • #31


Jimmy Snyder said:
The meaning of the word hype is being mangled here.
I've used the word and I have to admit you're right. If we had gotten 8 inches of rain, like was in the middle of the range, it would have been much worse.
 
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  • #32
Factbox: Storm Sandy blamed for at least 97 deaths in U.S., Canada (Reuters)
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/11/02/us-storm-sandy-deaths-idUSBRE89U1FJ20121102

The death toll may yet increase as authorities search various communities.

Sobering and somber stories in the NY Times (and why folks should stay put, prefereably in sturdy homes or away from large trees, and not go out in the storm)
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/31/nyregion/hurricane-sandys-lethal-power-in-many-ways.html

I don't think the strength of the storm was exaggerated. While not a Cat 5, but only a Cat 1, the flooding and winds were devastating to many communities. The storm surge coincided with high tide, which is one reason the flooding was so bad. If it had been at low tide, many places may not have flooded, or the flooding wouldn't have been so bad.
 
  • #33


Astronuc said:
The hurricane happened to hit the shore line in conjunction with normal high tide. ...
A bit higher than normal. The moon was full.
 

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