The creators of eye of the storm experienced hurricane katrina because they:

I believe the answer is: The creators of eye of the storm experienced hurricane Katrina in order to tell the story accurately

Writing about the events that actually happen by collecting data from testimony often could not depict the actual situation that exist due to the difference in perception and memory recollection from the witness. 
Experiencing the event by our self is one sure way to obtain the most accurate information even though it may perceived as a little bit subjective.