SUMMARY
Hurricane Gustav, a Category 4 storm, approached the U.S. Gulf Coast, prompting New Orleans Mayor's urgent evacuation orders. The hurricane's projected path indicated it would test the city's levees for the first time since Hurricane Katrina. As Gustav moved northwest, it was expected to bring heavy rains, flooding, and high winds, particularly impacting the northeastern quadrant of the storm. The levees, improved since Katrina, were anticipated to withstand the storm, although concerns remained about potential overflow and damage in low-lying areas.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of hurricane categories and the Saffir-Simpson scale
- Knowledge of flood defense systems and levee engineering
- Familiarity with storm surge dynamics and their impact on coastal areas
- Awareness of emergency management protocols during natural disasters
NEXT STEPS
- Research the engineering improvements made to New Orleans levees post-Katrina
- Study the effects of storm surge on coastal infrastructure
- Learn about the Saffir-Simpson scale and its implications for hurricane preparedness
- Investigate emergency evacuation plans and their effectiveness in hurricane-prone areas
USEFUL FOR
Emergency management professionals, civil engineers, meteorologists, and residents of hurricane-prone regions will benefit from this discussion, particularly those involved in disaster preparedness and response strategies.