Just heard on WWL TV (which is streaming over the web)that oil futures are up over four dollars a barrel, bringing the price up over $70 for the first time.
And from the "Now here's something to look forward to" file, we have this dire prediction from the AP:
When Hurricane Katrina hits New Orleans on Monday, it could turn one of America's most charming cities into a vast cesspool tainted with toxic chemicals, human waste and even coffins released by floodwaters from the city's legendary cemeteries.
Experts have warned for years that the levees and pumps that usually keep New Orleans dry have no chance against a direct hit by a Category 5 storm.
[snip]
The center's latest computer simulations indicate that by Tuesday, vast swaths of New Orleans could be under water up to 30 feet deep. In the French Quarter, the water could reach 20 feet, easily submerging the district's iconic cast-iron balconies and bars.
Estimates predict that 60 percent to 80 percent of the city's houses will be destroyed by wind. With the flood damage, most of the people who live in and around New Orleans could be homeless.
"We're talking about in essence having _ in the continental United States _ having a refugee camp of a million people," van Heerden said.
I know we're all strapped for cash these days, but I hope that once agencies post dedicated sites for donations, we all chip in to help these people. Let's show that "I've got mine and fuck you" isn't the American way.
I'll post anything I find.
UPDATE: Here's a map of the oil facilities right in the storm's path. If all are put offline, watch for $4.00 gasoline. And prepared to buy some sweaters this winter, especially if, like me, you have oil heat (though I think my budget payment is locked in already).
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