Some areas have been prepared better than others. For Example in Florida, where there are more frequent hurricanes, there are local level EOC which drill frequently and are well prepared. When I was at Cal State Long Beach and Medical director of the EOC, we practiced regularly (mostly earth quake risk), and there were comprehensive training courses) I think that terrorism preparedness has also helped some of the Northern areas.
Another factor in this storm, is that it down graded as it went further North. The Storm surge has been reported in the 8 foot range in some back bays--but for the most part only 3 or so feet. Also no levies to break, lower wind velocities etc. If it had come in as a Cat 3 to 4, the result would have been much different.
But state agencies seem to be better prepared and had early evacuation. Still some folks used poor judgement--such as out in Kayaks, surfing and wind surfing during the storm. This puts first responders at great risk. One risk is that if another storm comes along in the next few months, that people will say that the media and government overstated the risks (which they didn't) and people will not obey the evacuation orders.
I suspect there will be some in-convience with loss of power and more danger with the floods which will continue for the next few days.
Back to boats--it is amazing to me that many we see on TV were not well prepared. Such as removing all sails (including mains) on sail boats. Boats left at docks which were exposed, and will break up. No idea of what the boat loss will be, but I suspect it could be in the thousands when all added up.
