and with waters rising as quickly as they could be, the loss of life is a real possibility. >> this know it going to be over quick. this is not a fast-moving storm. >> reporter: this nasa image of isaac shows how it has grown and become more organized. life has come to a halt in places like gulfport, mississippi. buildings boarded up, residents hunkered down. no trains, planes, or school. and power outages are expected. >> use common sense. don't go outside and put yourself or others in a dangerous position. >> reporter: shelters are filling with those who heeded warnings from all levels. >> now is not the time to tempt fate. now is not the time to dismiss official warnings. you need to take this seriously. >> reporter: in new orleans, the levees that failed during hurricane katrina seven years ago will get their first big test since a $14 billion upgrade. >> we will probably get street flooding from the rain, heavy winds and stuff, lights may go out, but we are prepared for all of that. >> reporter: officials stress isaac will impact more than coastal communities and a