The lessons we should learn is simple: you have no control over weather.  But you can consider the passable adverse effects of where you build. Continue to build along side rivers and pretend there is no possibility of a flood is just ignorant. Then when there is another disaster expect the government out bail you out like the home owners who build on the beach and have had multiple houses washed out to sea.

We should also be aware that your can do lots of simple things to provide for you and your family in a disaster.  It is not difficult to have at least a basic amount of supplies, water, food ready to take with you in these situations.