To be honest, I think the government would be more responsive than in the past, simply because it learned many lessons during previous disasters. That said though, only so much they can do, and there is a lot of red tape and other factors that will delay response time.
Of course, just relying on them to help out though, you're asking for trouble. You really have to prep yourself. These blizzards are a perfect example. The local government CAN'T help, for the same reason folks are stranded. No safe way to get in or out of anywhere! So, hopefully people stocked up for such events. Those who did, are sitting warm and cozy with a nice meal. Those who didn't are cold and starving, looking for anything left in the cupboards.