The New Orleans Hurricane Protection System: Assessing Pre-Katrina Vulnerability and Improving Mitigation and Preparedness

Hurricane Katrina, which struck New Orleans and surrounding areas in August 2005, ranks as one of the nation’s most devastating natural disasters. Shortly after the storm, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers established a task force to assess the performance of the levees, floodwalls, and other structures comprising the area’s hurricane protection system during Hurricane Katrina. This book provides an independent review of the task force’s final draft report and identifies key lessons from the Katrina experience and their implications for future hurricane preparedness and planning in the region. Table of Contents Front Matter Summary 1 Introduction 2 The IPET Draft Final Report 3 Lessons Learned in Hurricane Katrina and Its Aftermath References Appendix A: Statement of Task: Committee on New Orleans Regional Hurricane Protection Projects Appendix B: Biographical Information: Committee on New Orleans Regional Hurricane Protection Projects