Andy,
RCI cancels exchanges only when it is certain that the resorts will be unable to accommodate our inbound guests. This is not as black and white as it may sound. Often, resorts can accommodate our guests even with many units down for maintenance. However, hurricane-affected resorts are in the unenviable position of having to rely on contractors in areas where demand is very high for such services, and work schedules can fall behind.
We are in constant contact with our resorts to determine if more vacations will need to be canceled. As soon as it is clear that this must happen, we contact our members. If there are too many to contact by telephone, we send letters.
It is absolutely not our practice to cancel vacations without notifying the affected members. I'm very sorry to hear of all the frustration.