WEATHER

How Do Obama's Natural Disaster Responses Measure Up? -- PICTURES

PHOTO: Lyn Topinka/U.S. Geological Survey

The eruption of Mount St. Helens in May 1980 was preceded by weeks of geological observations and official warnings, but nonetheless killed 57 people. While surveying the damage afterward, President Jimmy Carter said, "Somebody said it looked like the moon. But the moon looks like a golf course compared to this."

Updated: August 30, 2011 | 3:29 p.m.
August 30, 2011 | 2:08 p.m.

President Obama is generally receiving positive reviews for the federal government's preparation and recovery efforts for Hurricane Irene. Obama's decision to cut his vacation short and promptly address the nation stood in contrast to the failed response from President George W. Bush and government at all levels after Hurricane Katrina six years earlier.

Here's a look at how presidents have responded to hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and other weather emergencies:

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