The Mississippi River in Norco is under close watch during flood prevention operations.
Residents of Norco, Louisiana are on high alert as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers conducts a test opening of the Bonnet Carré Spillway amidst rising Mississippi River levels. This is the first operation since 2020, as the river nears critical flood stages, prompting the Corps to initiate Phase I of its flood fight operations. Local communities must remain vigilant as officials monitor the situation closely, balancing flood prevention efforts with potential impacts on commercial fisheries.
The calm waters of the Mississippi River near Norco, Louisiana are part of an ongoing situation that could affect many throughout the area. On April 21, 2025, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers conducted a test opening of the Bonnet Carré Spillway as the river approaches critical flood stage levels. This step indicates that authorities are on high alert as the area’s iconic river contemplates rolling through its banks.
For those keeping track, this test marks the first official opening since 2020. It’s like a rerun of a show that’s been off the air for a while, with everybody curious about what will happen next! The Corps took action as the Mississippi River’s levels are now forecasted to crest at about 16.5 feet on the Carrollton gauge in New Orleans by April 30, 2025. With the current level hovering just under 15 feet, the river is inching closer to that pivotal point.
The decision to fully open the spillway is closely monitored. Typically, a full release happens when the river flow hits approximately 1.25 million cubic feet per second, which aligns with the river reaching around 17 feet on that crucial Carrollton gauge. In other words, it’s a little like waiting for a big red light to turn green before speeding ahead!
As part of managing this situation, the Army Corps is currently in Phase I of its flood fight operations, which started on April 14, 2025, once the river touched 11 feet. During this phase, levee inspections occur on a biweekly basis, and construction within 1,500 feet of the levees must stop unless permission is granted. So, businesses and homeowners must stay alert and compliant as the water continues to rise.
This all sets the stage for a possible transition to Phase II as the Carrollton Gauge approaches the critical 15-foot mark around April 22, 2025. When that transition occurs, the frequency of levee inspections increases to daily, and unauthorized construction grinds to a complete halt. Each phase is like moving up the ranks in a game, and it takes teamwork and communication to ensure everyone is safe.
The Bonnet Carré Spillway plays a crucial role in the battle against flooding, as it helps divert excess water from the Mississippi River into Lake Pontchartrain. By doing so, it relieves pressure on the levees and acts as a safety valve for metro areas at risk. However, opening the spillway brings with it concerns, especially for local commercial fisheries. The rush of fresh water into the lake has potential implications for businesses such as shrimp and oyster production, making this decision a tricky balancing act.
The recent test run of the spillway is an annual procedure designed to prepare the Corps for any potential real needs that could arise. It’s like a fire drill—nobody wants to put it to use, but it’s essential to be prepared! As we move forward, the Corps remains focused on monitoring the river and weather forecasts closely to assess conditions and make informed operational decisions.
For now, residents and business owners alike are keeping an eye on the skies and river levels, hoping for the best while being prepared for whatever Mother Nature may unleash.
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