It takes a long time for discontent to turn to a rage so fierce that the only way to express yourself is through violence and destruction. The pre-storm estimates predicted 7-10 days, possibly as long as 14 in some areas, and recovery looks to be on-track with that. Urban areas are being given priority attention for a variety of reasons. Police presence has increased at least 100% in all areas, more like 200% in urban hot-spots. For example, in Jersey City you there is practically no place you can go where there isn't a squad car in view. Strict 6PM curfews were widely implemented.

The only incidents of rioting were minor and limited to gas stations. Now all operating gas stations have a permanent police team posted.

But tempers are starting to heat-up as the temperatures drop. I do expect some demonstrations to begin taking place if power isn't restored shortly to the low-income projects that still remain dark. Whether these turn into riots or not depends largely on how officials react. So far, officials seem to be doing a good job.

Haertig's comments are well taken, but do not adequately consider the dynamics. I won't venture far off-topic here, but the tri-state area does not have a history of these types of disasters. Sandy is the third hurricane to directly hit the state, tornados are rare, small and short-lived, earthquakes and major forest fires non-existent.

But no, there has been no rioting, and none is expected. Things might look differently in a week or so.