New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has taken decisive action by signing an emergency declaration regarding the intrusion of saltwater into the Mississippi River. This intrusion poses a significant threat to the water supply in the region and requires immediate attention.
“We will continue to collaborate closely with our local and state partners as we closely monitor this situation,” Cantrell shared on X (formerly known as Twitter). The Mayor’s commitment to addressing this issue highlights her dedication to the well-being of the city and its residents.
According to officials, weather forecasts indicate that the volume of the river will reach historic lows in the coming weeks. This decrease in volume is allowing saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico to infiltrate upstream in Louisiana. Plaquemines Parish has already been grappling with this problem since June, and the drought conditions have worsened over time. This alarming situation puts additional communities along the Mississippi River at risk.
Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards voiced his concern in a statement released on Friday, acknowledging the impact of the intrusion. He stated, “The Plaquemines Parish has been dealing with this issue since June. The drought conditions have only exacerbated the problem, which means that more communities along the Mississippi River are now facing potential consequences.”
The Boothville Water Treatment Plant water intake in Plaquemines Parish, in particular, has been severely affected by the saltwater intrusion. This intrusion is hampering the drinking water supply for residents and businesses from Empire to Venice in southeastern Louisiana, raising concerns about water safety.
To address this challenge, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers constructed an underwater barrier sill in July to create an artificial basin that would delay the ingress of saltwater. Unfortunately, the upriver intrusion of saltwater has exceeded the sill’s elevation this week, demanding a swift response.
Governor Edwards announced that additional measures would be taken to further delay the saltwater intrusion. This includes plans to enlarge the existing sill, which is expected to extend the timeline for intrusion by approximately 10 to 15 days. However, the forecast indicates that the river’s water level will continue to decline, and minimal rainfall is anticipated to alleviate the situation. In response, local, state, and federal officials are collaborating to explore solutions that can protect water systems and intake points.
Despite the challenges presented by this situation, Governor Edwards emphasizes that it is crucial not to panic or rely on misinformation. Drawing from past experiences, he reassures the public that thorough monitoring and preparedness are in place. Edwards reminds everyone to stay informed through credible sources and trusts that the necessary actions will be taken to mitigate the consequences effectively.
The urgency and gravity of the situation necessitate immediate action and careful management. With the combined efforts of government officials and the adherence to credible information sources, the region’s water supply can be protected from further harm.
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