
New Orleans levee system
The New Orleans levee system is a network of barriers, walls, and pumps designed to protect the city from flooding from the Mississippi River and surrounding waters. Built high and wide enough to withstand significant storm surges, these levees help keep water out during heavy rains and hurricanes. They are reinforced regularly to adapt to changing conditions. The system also includes pumps that remove excess water, ensuring the city remains dry. While highly effective, the levees require constant maintenance and monitoring to prevent breaches, which has become especially important after past flooding events like Hurricane Katrina.