As of right now, I'm right in the middle of the projected path of Hurricane Rita. I realise it's still early, but the threat is real. Mine and surrounding counties have already issued early voluntary evacuations. My apartment is approximately 30-40 miles from the coast...too close to try and "ride it out". I already had a trip up to East Texas planned this weekend anyways, so perhaps I'll just have to leave early and bring a few extras (my cats, guitars, and whatever else I can fit). Yet my family owns property in Galveston, on the west end-not protected by the seawall. My job is also there, but in the east end in the city. So naturally I'm worried.
Our stretch of coast has been lucky over the years, and we're prolly overdue for a direct hit. TS Allison was costly in Houston, but that was mainly due to drainage issues. Hurricane Alicia (early 80's) was the last major hurricane around here.

Be assured officials of many levels are not looking to repeat what happened in New Orleans here in Galveston. Houston Metro busses, church, and school busses have all been allocated for use if needed for mass mandatory evacuation. And as devastating as Katrina was, Galveston still holds the record for the most deadliest hurricane (or any natural disaster) in the U.S., with 9000+ dying in 1900. Naturally they take hurricanes seriously there.