I'm seeing a lot of criticism about the handling of recent tornado damage, and I wanted to offer some perspective. Back in May 2011, I served as the Public Information Officer for the disaster response in Joplin (and I have the PTSD to prove it). It was horrific. (1/5) #stlwx
One of my biggest takeaways from that experience was a tough truth: we really are on our own, and no one is coming to save us. You have to be able to get through at least 72 hours with zero assistance. I was shocked and horrified to realize this, but it's true - EVERYWHERE. (2/5)
First responders will always be individuals and non-profits. City, state, and federal assistance takes time. What you're seeing right now is a pretty normal response. No one is grossly messing anything up (at least not regionally). (3/5)
I don't have a dog in this fight, but I truly believe our energy should be saved for helping each other rather than tearing each other down right now. It's just the system we live in. I wish it wasn't. It was scary then, it's scary now. (4/5)
If you didn't know before, please take note now: you need to be ready to get by without assistance for at least 72 hours, and you need to dig in and help others when disaster strikes.
Was there for a week and came back multiple times. Still have not seen any natural disaster like that one. You are right, it was horrific.
Remember to have cash in case of a failed electrical grid. ATMs, pay apps and credit cards could be useless.