I think you are reading too much into this. When Katrina happened, there was such a poor response to get help to the victims for whatever reason, that it highlighted an urgent need for preparedness and planning, and this might be all it is.

For sure they may know more than they want us to know just yet regarding a possible mas death scenario but there are obvious signs everywhere of major climatic changes - just look at the CAT 3 Irene storm heading towards the states right now.

If there is major devastation and the gov isn't prepared, (no body bags or planning etc) then if there are casualties of the freak weather, how will they deal with the bodies? And more importantly what perception does it leave on the nation of a government that has not planeed to respond to these types of events?

Prolly no more than purchasing stockpiles for future possible scenarios, and to throw them away if the date ewxires and nothing happens.

Also, you mention your work and where you are based, and you are providing rather sensitive information...are you not concerned about confidential nature of what you are saying, not to mention the scaremongering going on as a result of your comments OP?