natural disasters and preparation

In NYC, I stood in a seemingly endless grocery store line in preparation for hurricane Irene. My attempt to buy a flashlight at local convenient stores was futile. Supplies are running out. The city's entire public transportation system closed for the first time in history at noon in order for the carts to be stored safely away from the storm's strong winds. Of course this hurricane poses countless inconveniences and perhaps many unknown dangers, but at least I am living in a context where I have the resources to get by. At times like these, its important to think about those who don't have the protection imbued by urban living and resources.