"If you granted amnesty to 11 million undocumented workers you are flooding the market with the potential of those folks competing for jobs with Americans.

VOA: standard.2010.04.12

However, an evacuation could be ordered for a less intense hurricane if it were particularly slow-moving and carried greater flooding potential, he said.

CNN: Louisiana governor declares emergency ahead of Gustav

But residents are already feeling happier now their homes are protected from potential flooding.

BBC: Towns' flood defences in place

"This summer over 100, 000 households were warned of potential flooding thanks to our warning service, giving people essential time to protect their homes and possessions, " he added.

BBC: Bristol flash mob aims to increase flood alert users