Generators are wonderful things to have, especially auto-start with an auto-transfer switch.
Unfortunately, they're mechanical, and you can't always count on them to start when you need them.
Case in point, my own 50kW generator which refuses to start for some reason. I tried a new battery, but that didn't help:
So... that sucked..
Safe to say, it's been A LOT of battery operated lights for the past few months for me, mostly lanterns. Primary (Alkaline) batteries rule in a situation like this. 18650/21700's are great, but in a situation like this they're useless. As time has moved on and things are rebuilt, rechargeables start to become more practical.
Long runtimes are key here, far moreso than features. Also, high CRI & warm/neutral color temperatures go a LONG way to making a very messed-up situation feel more civilized.