B R E A K I N G . . . N E W S: NOLA EVACUAEES HEADING TO HOUSTON

Officials are saying that the 30,000-plus New Orleanians who had been sheltered in the Louisiana Superdome and nine other "shelters of last resort" during and after Hurricane Katrina will be taken to Houston, with the 40-year-old Houston Astrodome serving as their shelter.

With conditions worsening, and the Superdome becoming more dangerous with no electricity, water, or sewer and toilets backing --- in addition to the holes in the roof --- Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco said she wants to have the city of New Orleans completely evacuated within two days.

According to the Houston Chronicle, Texas officials are also in discussions with Jefferson County officials about using Beaumont's Ford Center for longterm shelter.

The Astrodome's schedule has been cleared through December, and Harris County, which operates the domed stadium which formerlly was home to the Houston Oilers NFL team and Houston Astros baseball club, will be reimbursed by FEMA.