GULFPORT, Ms. -- Folks in Gulfport say they learned a lot from Hurricane Katrina. Seven years ago people didn't leave when mandatory evacuations were activated. This time, officials with the Emergency Operations Center say homeowners listened. And leaders say it's a good thing.
"We have wind, rain, and water over the roads," said PIO Ryan LaFontaine.
Hurricane Isaac has not been kind to Gulfport Mississippi. But that is nothing new. It's a city that's been beat down and battered by bigger storms, like Hurricane Katrina. Only this time they were ready.
"It's different because we've learned so much," LaFontaine said.
He told Action News they spent the day surveying the damage. And so far, things are holding up well -- no reports of significant damage or any injuries. That's because after Katrina left this city in ruins, they came back better.
"A lot of the structures that the city rebuilt after the hurricane we built 'em back stronger bigger, taller. Just like residents built their homes back. So I think the area, the city as a whole is kind of rebuilding itself in a way that would prepare us for this."
About 700 people are taking advantage of the six shelters that are open. EOC officials are still urging folks to stay indoors and off the roads - many are impassable.
