An unfolding tragedy in America

Hurricane Irene hit the North Carolinian coast earlier this morning. Tragically, it has already caused injuries and claimed one fatality. The pictures on news channels are terrifying; few things are more horrendous and awesome than nature. America has battened down the hatches and many international flights to the States have been cancelled.

New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg has been a constant presence as this storm has neared, and Barack Obama has returned to Washington to weather the storm. A cynic might slam the President’s decision as a hollow gesture. But, after Bush’s mauling post-Katrina, even the weather is political these days.