New Orleans
Civil engineers investigating the flooding of New Orleans now believe some of the city’s levees may have failed due to poor construction. Initially, it was widely assumed that the hurricane’s storm-surge had pushed water levels over the top of the flood barriers, and in eastern regions of the city this appears to have been the case. But some of the other levees bear high-water marks, like a ring around a bathtub, suggesting the water never climbed high enough to “overtop” the levees, but rather broke through by undermining the levees’ foundations. If confirmed, the finding could open the city up to massive lawsuits from displaced former residents.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
What are the different types of nuclear weapons?The Explainer Speculation mounts that post-war taboo on nuclear weapons could soon be shattered by use of 'battlefield' missiles
-
Floral afternoon teas to enjoy during the Chelsea Flower ShowThe Week Recommends These are the prettiest spots in the city to savour a traditional treat
-
How to plan a trip along the Mississippi RiverThe Week Recommends See this vital waterway from the Great River Road
