What I heard (I'm not vouching for accuracy here, there's too much conjecture out there right now) was that most of the writers made sure there were enough scripts to get through November sweeps, which I think has now ended, but not much beyond that. Shows that have new episodes next week will likely be airing the last one they have.
As for Heroes coming to a quick season ender, it was my understanding that they already had plans for the spin off "Heroes: Origins" to take over the time slot for six weeks or so in mid-season, and I read about that before the strike. If the Origins scripts were ready in advance (I'm sure at least one or two were), the Heroes franchise may be the best prepared on primetime to continue showing new episodes during this crisis.
As much as I love being entertained, I think I'd rather it all come to a screeching halt if that's what it takes to get the attention required to further the writers' cause.
Ditto for the Local One stagehands striking on Broadway. I know what kind of work they do; I've done it. It's hard work with no glory, and a general public that thinks the actors and directors are all that matters. Some of us thespians aren't actors, we're techies, hands, artists, costumers, stage managers, etc. It does my heart good to see them turn around the follow spot, so to speak.