hi @Jon447
I think you may find stories will change as circumstances and stress levels along with confusion hits people in times of stress.
Maybe they are trying to sort out their options what to do, if they stay together as a family etc,maybe even if someone stays behind to help clean up or do work there.
Connectivity can come & go in phases, it will all depend on electricity supply - including if they are near a place to recharge devices. Electricity can go on and off during repairs etc.
Perhaps reach out & ask questions what they are going through mentally/ emotionally.
Ask for more details about their situation to clarify or see if you can better help them in a positive way.
Have a read through other Open Home natural disaster situations using keywords here in CC searchbox to see feedback and most importantly learn from those who have been through things in the past & how they addressed random strangers in distressed & displaced states how they went through it.
I can appreciate the fact you are opening your home for the 1st time as an ABB Host which is very admirable & understandably cautious - many go through those motions when starting out.
There's many unknowns in life and none of us know what may be going through the minds of those undergoing displacement for whatever reason.