The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for the Mississippi River in New Orleans and surrounding areas, effective January 12. This comes as floodwater from devastating winter rain in the Midwest makes its way south.
The river is expected to reach flood stage, 17 feet, in the next week. Rain is also in the forecast starting Wednesday night, adding to the risk of flooding. NWS warns not to drive cars through flooded areas.
The Army Corps of Engineers is meeting today to determine whether they will open the Bonnet Carré Spillway to divert high water before it reaches New Orleans.
Officials with the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority issued a statement Monday warning people to avoid walking or driving on the Mississippi River levees as inspectors prepare for rising water. Inspection teams from the Army Corps, Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, National Guard and Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will be out inspecting the levees every day over the coming weeks.
CPRA has the authority to ban levee traffic by adopting emergency regulations when there are dangerous flood conditions. The agency’s statement says they will enforce the rule and it could result in fines. It comes after Governor Bobby Jindal declared a state of emergency last week.
Support for WWNO's Coastal Desk comes from the Greater New Orleans Foundation, the Coypu Foundation and the Walton Family Foundation.
