The Bonnet Carre Spillway overlooking the Mississippi River, crucial for flood management in New Orleans.
As the Mississippi River continues to rise, New Orleans readies itself for a possible opening of the Bonnet Carre Spillway. The Army Corps of Engineers is appealing a federal ruling related to the spillway’s operation while monitoring river levels, which are projected to crest soon. Although current weather forecasts do not predict an immediate need for the opening, conditions may change. The spillway has not been opened since 2020, and its operation is vital for protecting the city from potential flooding.
As the magnificent Mississippi River continues to rise, New Orleans is gearing up for the possibility of the Bonnet Carre Spillway opening its gates again. This vital structure plays a key role in protecting the city from flooding by diverting excess water from the river to beautiful Lake Pontchartrain.
Just recently, the Army Corps of Engineers decided to appeal a ruling from a federal judge that occurred on March 20, 2023. This ruling requires consultations with federal fisheries experts before any decision can be made on opening the spillway. With rising river levels, the Corps is keen on making timely and effective decisions for the safety of New Orleans.
Current forecasts are indicating that the Mississippi River is expected to crest around April 25, which could last for about five days. The Bonnet Carre Spillway has a specific trigger flow rate of 1.25 million cubic feet per second or about 17 feet on the Carrollton gauge. Present projections suggest that the river may crest at around 16.5 feet, just shy of the threshold to trigger an opening. However, some experts caution that this is within a possible margin of error, meaning an opening could still be necessary.
The National Weather Service does not currently expect conditions that would necessitate an immediate spillway operation, but let’s be honest—weather forecasts often change. With the Corps now looking into possible partial openings of the spillway for about nine days later in the month, everyone in the area is paying close attention.
It’s essential to note that the Bonnet Carre Spillway hasn’t been opened since 2020. Historically, the structure has opened a total of 15 times, with the most recent openings occurring in 2019 due to heavy rains in the Midwest. Each time the spillway opens, it acts as a critical relief valve for the levees protecting southern Louisiana from potential catastrophic flooding.
There’s always a catch, isn’t there? Freshwater influx from the spillway may pose risks to local fisheries, especially the commercial shrimp and oyster sectors in Lake Pontchartrain. The spillway’s opening has led to emergency declarations in the past because of the ecological consequences that follow.
As part of their preparedness, the Corps plans to enter Phase I flood flight procedures. Once the Carrollton gauge hits the 11-foot mark, this phase will include bi-weekly inspections of the levee system to check for potential seepage and any other issues that may arise. Additionally, unauthorized subsurface work near the levees is a no-go during this phase, to ensure maximum safety.
So, as we approach the end of April, projections suggest that river crests along the lower Mississippi will start to show signs of a gradual decline. This slow descent may limit the need for prolonged spillway openings, putting many residents at ease.
In summary, while we might not be facing an immediate crisis, it’s clear that the Bonnet Carre Spillway is on the radar as river levels climb. Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on updates and remain prepared for any changes that might be coming in the neighboring waterways.
New Orleans has seen a lot over the years, but with careful monitoring and strategic planning, we can face Mother Nature together!
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